More than a quarter of adults in the UK think getting cancer is all down to fate, according to a survey of more than 4,000 people conducted by Cancer Research UK.

The survey asked a cross-section of the population whether they thought they could do anything to reduce their risk of cancer or whether getting the disease was just fate.

Overall, 27 per cent of those asked said it was fate. Among those from the most deprived areas this figure rose to 43 per cent compared with 14 per cent in the most privileged areas.

Surprisingly, more women than men believe cancer is due to fate and people over 65 were the most likely to put the disease down to destiny.
Dr Lesley Walker, director of cancer information at Cancer Research UK, said, “It is alarming that such a large percentage of the British population don’t realise that half of all cases of cancer can be prevented by lifestyle changes.

“We can all reduce our risk of cancer by stopping smoking, keeping a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables and taking plenty of exercise. Enjoying the sun safely and avoiding sunburn also helps to reduce cancer risk.”

Cancer Research UK’s Reduce the Risk campaign is actively encouraging people to learn how they can lead healthier lives and cut their risk of developing cancer.

Walker adds, “We can give people information about how to do this but it is seriously worrying that so many people think cancer is down to fate.”

The survey also found that smokers were 50 per cent more likely than non-smokers to believe getting cancer was fate, despite endless health campaigns about the high risk of lung cancer from smoking.

Research suggests that around half of all cancers could be prevented by changes to lifestyle. Cancer Research UK’s Reduce the Risk campaign highlights five ways you can lower your cancer risk.

Fags, not fate – smoking is the killer.

Stop smoking: Whatever the time of year, giving up smoking is the best present you’ll ever give yourself. Most people in the UK know that smoking is the biggest single cause of cancer in the world. Despite this, one in four UK adults smokes, and smoking rates are highest in young adults.

Stay in shape: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of several cancers, not too mention other health problems. Cancer Research UK recommends that you make a conscious effort to balance the energy you take in from food with the energy you burn through activity. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, gardening and swimming, five days a week will help reduce your cancer risk.

Eat and drink healthily: Limit alcohol and choose a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. Alcohol increases your risk of certain cancers; more so if you also smoke. Try to limit the amount you drink and aim for a healthy balanced diet.

Be sun smart: Protect yourself in the sun and take care not to burn. Watch moles for any changes and get any unusual skin blemishes checked out by your doctor. Avoid using sunbeds, which are a known cause of skin cancer.
Look after number one: Know your body and see your doctor about anything unusual. Go for screening tests when invited.

Cancer Research UK’s website, www.cancerresearchuk.org, has links to many organisations dedicated to helping you reduce your risk of cancer.