| || | | Preventing Cancer | Cancer appears to result from a
combination of genetic changes and environmental factors. A
change in lifestyle that minimizes exposure to environmental
carcinogens is one effective means of preventing cancer.
Individuals who restrict their exposure to tobacco products,
sunlight, and pollution can greatly decrease their risk of
developing cancer. Many foods contain antioxidants and other
nutrients that may help to prevent cancer. The National Cancer
Institute recommends a diet with large amounts of colorful
fruits and vegetables. These foods supply ample amounts of
vitamin A, C, and E, as well as phytochemicals and other
antioxidants that help to prevent cancer. There is strong
evidence that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits will not only
reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and
diabetes, but will also protect against cancer. Vaccines also
offer some promise for prevention of cancer. The first vaccine
to prevent cancer was for hepatitis B, which is associated wit