Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with nearly two million new cancer cases diagnosed each year. Research shows that 40–50% of cancers are linked to preventable factors, including tobacco use, excess weight, poor diet, physical inactivity, and alcohol consumption.
Observed each February, National Cancer Prevention Month highlights evidence-based actions that reduce cancer risk and promote early detection. Organizations such as the American Cancer Society emphasize that prevention is rooted in daily habits, routine screenings, vaccinations, and—when appropriate—preventive medications.
To maximize prevention efforts, individuals should talk with their healthcare providers about whether preventive medications—such as statins or low-dose aspirin—may be appropriate based on personal risk factors. The RxLess® Assurance Plan can help make eligible preventive prescriptions more affordable and accessible when cost is a concern.
What Is National Cancer Prevention Month?
National Cancer Prevention Month is a congressionally recognized awareness initiative focused on reducing cancer risk through education and early action. With millions of Americans affected by cancer each year, the campaign emphasizes prevention strategies proven to lower cancer incidence and mortality.
Key prevention priorities include tobacco avoidance, sun protection, healthy nutrition and physical activity, cancer-preventing vaccinations, and timely screenings. These prevention priorities are supported by national cancer prevention guidance from the American Cancer Society.
Why Cancer Prevention Matters More Than Ever
Cancer death rates in the United States have declined by roughly one-third since the early 1990s, largely due to prevention, early detection, and improved treatment. Declines in cancer mortality are attributed to these efforts.
Despite this progress, cancer remains the second leading cause of death nationwide. Lifestyle-related risk factors account for more than 40% of cancer cases, and obesity-associated cancers continue to rise.
Lifestyle Habits That Lower Cancer Risk
Avoiding tobacco is the single most effective way to reduce cancer risk. Quitting smoking can reduce lung cancer risk by approximately 50% within 10 - 15 years, and avoiding secondhand smoke further lowers exposure.
Alcohol intake should also be limited. For cancer prevention, experts recommend no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men, as alcohol increases the risk of cancers of the breast, liver, colon, mouth, and throat.
Maintaining a healthy weight, prioritizing sleep, and managing chronic stress further support cancer prevention by reducing inflammation and hormonal disruption.
How Diet Supports Cancer Prevention
A nutrient-rich diet plays a key role in lowering cancer risk. Eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, particularly cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, is associated with reduced colorectal cancer risk.
Replacing refined grains with whole grains, limiting processed meats, and reducing red meat intake helps decrease exposure to carcinogens. Mediterranean-style eating patterns—rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, fish, and olive oil—are consistently associated with lower overall cancer risk.
Physical Activity and Cancer Risk Reduction
Regular physical activity protects against several cancers, especially breast and colorectal cancers. National guidelines recommend 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities at least twice weekly.
Even modest, consistent movement improves immune function, helps regulate hormones, and supports better long-term health outcomes.
Tobacco, Sun Exposure, and Environmental Cancer Risks
Tobacco use causes roughly 30% of all cancers and nearly 480,000 deaths annually in the United States. FDA-approved smoking-cessation medications—when combined with counseling—significantly improve quit rates. Examples include:
Varenicline (Chantix)
Nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges)
Sun exposure is another major risk factor. Ultraviolet radiation causes approximately 90% of skin cancers. Daily use of SPF 30 or higher, protective clothing, shade-seeking, and monthly skin self-checks are essential preventive measures.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identify environmental cancer risks such as radon exposure, workplace chemicals, air pollution, and regularly eating heavily charred meats
Vaccines That Help Prevent Cancer
Some cancers can be prevented through vaccination. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine protects against cervical, anal, throat, and other HPV-related cancers, while the hepatitis B vaccine reduces liver cancer risk by preventing chronic infection.
Staying up to date on recommended vaccines is a powerful and often overlooked cancer-prevention strategy.
Cancer Screenings That Save Lives
Cancer screenings detect disease early, when treatment is most effective. Recommended screenings may include mammograms, cervical cancer testing, colorectal cancer screening, and low-dose CT scans for lung cancer in high-risk adults.
Screening schedules vary by age and individual risk factors and are based on evidence-based guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
Preventive Medications and Cancer Risk Reduction
For some individuals, medications may help reduce cancer risk when used under medical supervision. Examples include:
Statins, such as atorvastatin and rosuvastatin
Low-dose aspirin, which may reduce colorectal cancer risk for select adults at elevated cardiovascular risk
Hormonal risk-reduction therapies, such as tamoxifen or raloxifene, for breast cancer prevention in high-risk women
Cancer prevention is built on everyday choices—healthy habits, timely screenings, recommended vaccinations, and informed conversations with healthcare providers. When medications are part of a prevention plan, cost should not be a barrier. The RxLess® Assurance Plan helps individuals compare real-time prices at pharmacies nationwide, making preventive and long-term medications more affordable and accessible.
