Cancer Prevention
Most Australians will enjoy a long and healthy life. However, some people’s cancer risk is effected by the things that they do- the life they live. You may be able to avoid many cancers by changing the way you currently live. Do you have a personal plan for cancer prevention?
 Your Personal Plan for Cancer Prevention
There are many things one can do- or not do, to minimise one’s risks of developing cancer:
Don’t Smoke
About 1 in 5 deaths from cancer are due to smoking. More than 10 000 Australians are diagnosed with a smoking related cancer each year. It is important to also avoid second-hand smoke. For more information, read Quit Smoking or contact our Quit Officer on 6257 9999.
Get Active
Keeping fit and active has many health benefits. Being active most days of the week appears to cut one’s chances of breast cancer (after menopause), bowel cancer and possibly prostate cancer. It also helps prevent heart disease and stroke. For more information, read the following information sheet:
Be Active
Keep a Healthy Weight
Latest evidence shows that obesity increases the risk of several types of cancer. If you are overweight, you are probably eating more than you need for your height and level of activity. For more information, read Maintain a Health Weight
Eat Healthy
To reduce the risk of certain cancers, The Cancer Council recommends a healthy body weight, regular exercises and a healthy diet. For more information, read the following information sheet:
Healthy Eating to Reduce Cancer Risk
Be SunSmart
Each year in Australia over 1600 people will die due to skin cancer. Your skin can burn in as little as 15 minutes in the summer sun- the longer your unprotected skin is in the sun, the quicker your skin will burn and the greater your risk of developing skin cancer. For more information, visit our SunSmart section.
Avoid Alcohol
To reduce the risk of cancer, alcohol should be avoided. If you choose to drink, limit your intake. For more information, read Avoid Alcohol
Attend Screening Programs
Because screening for breast, bowel and cervical cancer saves lives, these regular checks are a great thing to get into the habit of doing. For more information on breast, bowel and cervical screenings read Screening Programs.
Cancer Prevention Information Sheets
Please feel free to view and download The Cancer Council Information Sheets.
Workplace and Community Groups
Workplaces and community groups can play an active role in the health and wellbeing of their employees and members.
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