The report five years in the making is by most accounts is the most comprehensive ever published on the evidence linking cancer risk to diet, physical activity and weight.
Finding that the evidence is now convincing that carrying excess body fat increases risk for cancer of the esophagus, pancreas, colon, kidney and endometrium as well as post-menopausal breast cancer, the report recommends that people aim to stay within the healthy weight range (18.5 to 25) on the BMI chart throughout adult life. It further recommends staying as lean as possible within that range. This recommendation is more stringent than WCRF/AICR -- and most other organizations -- have previously issued on weight and reflects the stronger evidence that has emerged over the last few years.
Health officials tied to the project and who have reviewed the researchers findings are urging limitations on red meat. The new assessment finds the evidence linking red meat (beef, pork, lamb and goat) to colorectal cancer is more convincing than it was a decade ago. Accordingly, WCRF/AICR's expert panel recommends limiting consumption of red meat to 18 ounces (cooked) per week. The recommendation concerning processed meats is even more rigorous. Based on convincing evidence, the panel recommends avoiding processed meats such as bacon, ham, sausage and lunchmeat.
The report also goes on to say that evidence in the findings is convincing that alcoholic drinks are linked to cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, as well as colorectal cancer in men and pre-and post-menopausal cancer in women.
Below are health recommendations for cancer prevention:
1. Be as lean as possible within the normal range of body weight.
2. Be physically active as part of everyday life.
3. Limit consumption of energy-dense foods. Avoid sugary drinks.
4. Eat mostly foods of plant origin.
5. Limit intake of red meat and avoid processed meat.
6. Limit alcoholic drinks.
7. Limit consumption of salt. Avoid moldy cereals (grains) or pulses (legumes).
8. Aim to meet nutritional needs through diet alone.
Special Population Recommendations
9. Mothers to breastfeed; children to be breastfed.
10. Cancer survivors to follow the recommendations for cancer prevention.
