MP Takes Action On Cancer Prevention

1.10.33pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 25th Feb 2005

Local MP Annette Brooke is supporting Cancer Research UK's latest cancer prevention campaign 'Reduce the Risk'. Annette Brooke has signed Early Day Motion 508 which calls on the Government to prioritise cancer prevention and to support the 'Reduce the Risk' campaign.

One of the five key steps to reducing cancer is eating healthily

The campaign aims to raise awareness about cancer prevention and the importance of early detection. Currently one in three people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. The 'Reduce the Risk' campaign outlines five key measures on reducing your risk of cancer - stop smoking, stay in shape, eat and drink healthily, be sun-smart and body aware.

A recent survey for the charity revealed there is still confusion over what increases the risk of cancer - over two thirds of people do not realise that being overweight or obese increases the risk of some cancers and that a unhealthy diet could increase risk of the disease.

Annette spoke of the importance of the campaign and the impact that it will have - 'this survey shows that many people don't realise that half of all cancers could be prevented by changes to lifestyle - that is why this prevention campaign is so important'.

Cancer Research UK's Campaign to 'Reduce the Risk' will run for five years - more information can be found at www.reducetherisk.org.uk or by contacting their Public Affairs Team on 020 7061 8360.