Research shows that up to 40% of cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle modifications. Each February, the World Cancer Research Fund holds Cancer Prevention Action Week, which focuses on supporting the public to make healthier choices to reduce cancer risk.
Here are evidence-based strategies to reduce cancer risk and how we can support you in adopting these lifestyle changes.
Understanding cancer’s impact
Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with approximately 15% of all deaths attributed to cancer as of 2021. In the UK alone, about 950 people are diagnosed with cancer daily, representing a 5% increase from the previous year. The four most common cancers in the UK are breast, prostate, lung, and bowel cancer.
1. Limit alcohol
For Cancer Prevention Action Week 2025, World Cancer Research is highlighting the links between alcohol and cancer.
It’s thought that approximately 17,000 cases of cancer in the UK annually could be linked to alcohol consumption, yet there are worrying gaps in people’s awareness of alcohol and cancer, with one survey by Cancer Research UK finding only one in 10 people know that alcohol causes cancer.
How we can help: Our Lifestyle Medical identifies harmful factors such as alcohol consumption and can support you in quitting or reducing intake and embracing healthier alternatives.
2. Eat a cancer-prevention diet
It seems that it pays to trust your gut… microbiome. There is a growing body of research into the interplay between our gut microbiome and colorectal cancer, which has implications for diagnosing early-onset colorectal cancer, treating the disease, or managing metastatic CRC.
How we can help: A healthy, balanced diet is essential for cancer prevention. Our GPs can make key dietary recommendations or refer you to a dietician for further support.
3. Move more to lower cancer risk
Exercise can lower the risk of several cancers, particularly in cancers known to be related to a lack of physical activity, such as colorectal and pre-menopausal breast cancers.
Current UK guidelines are at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity with strengthening activities at least two days a week. Finding time to exercise in our busy schedules can be challenging, but promising research has shown that even tiny amounts of vigorous activity, known as ‘exercise snacking‘, can dramatically reduce cancer risk
How we can help: We work closely with sports medicine consultants and exercise specialists if you require support to embrace a more active lifestyle.
4. Quit smoking
Tobacco smoking is a significant risk factor for several cancers, including lung cancer, mouth cancer, throat cancer, and even bowel cancer. In fact, an estimated 7% of bowel cancer cases in the UK are linked to tobacco smoking, with the risk increasing with the number of cigarettes smoked per day. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk.
How we can help: Arrange a GP appointment to discuss our smoking cessation services.
5. Protect your skin
Despite the British weather, skin cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer in the UK with new analysis showing melanoma skin cancer rates have increased by almost a third over the past decade. However, the majority are preventable, as nearly 9 in 10 cases in the UK are caused by exposure to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and sunbeds.
How we can help: If you notice a change in your skin that isn’t normal for you, arrange a GP appointment as soon as possible. We can refer you to a dermatologist for further investigation if needed.
6. Consider vaccinations
Vaccines against human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B can help prevent certain cancers, such as cervical or liver cancer.
How we can help: We offer the full range of vaccinations at Chelsea Medics.
7. Proactively protect your health
Regular health check-ups and cancer screenings are essential for early detection and prevention.
Cancer screenings we offer either as standalone or as part of our medicals include:
- Mammogram for breast cancer
- Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer
- Cervical smear and HPV test for cervical cancer
- Low-dose CT screening for those who are at high risk for lung cancer
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for men, especially if they have a family history of prostate cancer
- TruCheck™ Early Cancer Screening blood test, a thorough check for up to 70 types of solid cancer tumours, identifying the type of cancer and the organ it originated
We have also launched our Lifestyle Medical, which identifies harmful lifestyle factors and offers an evidence-based, bespoke, and effective plan for incorporating these necessary lifestyle modifications into your daily life. This means you can take proactive steps to reduce cancer risk and improve overall health/
Call 020 3955 5444 or email [email protected] to arrange one of the bespoke Medical screening services we offer and/or the TruCheck Screening Test.