Britons believe cancer risk is down to fate

Over a quarter of Britons believe that their risk of developing cancer is purely down to fate, research has shown.

A new survey by Cancer Research UK shows that a startling 27 per cent of adults think that whether or not they get cancer is determined by fate and are under the misconception that they can do nothing to improve their chances.

Dr Lesley Walker, director of information at the charity, said that a number of lifestyle choices could help to reduce cancer risk, including stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, consuming plenty of fruit and vegetables and avoiding getting sunburn.

"It is alarming that such a large percentage of the British population do not realise that half of all cases of cancer can be prevented by lifestyle changes," he said.

"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."

People living in the most deprived areas of Britain are most likely to attribute cancer risk to fate, with 43 per cent of people in those areas not appreciating the importance of lifestyle, compared to just 14 per cent in the most affluent areas.

© Adfero Ltd

Cancer treatment news : 03/01/2007