The publication is the most comprehensive report ever published on the link between the prevention of cancer and food, nutrition, and physical activity. The report has taken five years to complete, and nine teams from around the world were involved in the research and literature review.
The research teams analyzed data from 7,000 published studies related to various cancer sites, the causes of weight gain and obesity, cancer survivors, and health recommendations for other chronic diseases.
Professor Sir Michael Marmot chaired a panel of twenty-one internationally renowned scientists that drew conclusions and formulated a list of ten recommendations. The first three advise people to stay lean and suggest means to stop weight gain:
Be as lean as possible within the normal range of body weight
Be physically active as part of everyday life
Limit consumption of energy-dense foods, and avoid sugary drinks
Eat mostly foods of plant origin
Limit intake of red meat, and avoid processed meat
Limit alcoholic drinks
Limit consumption of salt, and avoid mouldy cereals (grains) or pulses (legumes)
Aim to meet nutritional needs through diet alone
Mothers to breastfeed; children to be breastfed
Cancer survivors: follow the recommendations for cancer prevention
For the first time, these recommendations are bolstered by strong evidence and scientific consensus. The report found convincing evidence that body fat is directly linked to six cancers including colorectal and post-menopausal breast cancer. Along with personal recommendations, the report provides public health goals and justifications for each suggestion.
After the initial publication in 1997, this work immediately became the most authoritative and influential report in the field and helped to highlight the importance of research in the area. Since then, the report has become the standard text for policy-makers in all levels of government, for civil society and health professional organizations, and for teaching and research institutions worldwide.
The increase of scientific literature along with the advent of new research information and methods of analysis stimulated the need for an updated report.
For further information:
Information on the report
World Cancer Research Fund
American Institute for Cancer Research
EPHA related articles:
MEPs acknowledge need for comprehensive strategy to control cancer
Launch of a new European Parliament Forum on Cancer
Obesity and Overweight issues
Food and Nutrition
