Behavior and cancer prevention

This paper reviews research on the effects of behavioral risk factors on cancer incidence. as well as behavioral interventions for cancer prevention. Risk factors discussed here-tobaccco use, diet, physical activity, and obesity/energy balance re all linked with cancer etiology. and effective behavioral interventions have been developed in all of these areas. The most effective interventions appear to incorporate various components; for example, including individual as well as family activities, and involving multiple community organisations in behavior-changing activities. Behavioral theories have guided the design of these interventions, providing support that certain influences on behavior, such as self-efficacy, problem-solving skills, and social support, are important regardless of the specific behavioral target. As illustrated by the recent lowered lung cancer incidence and mortality rates for man and women. behavior change is possible and effective in cancer prevention. Clinical guidelines have been esiablished for behavioral aspects of treatments for smoking cessation, dietary guideline comoliance , physical activity, and obesity reduction, and new tools for dissemination of effective intervention materials will be helpful in increasing their use. Documenting the cost-effectiveness of behavioral interventions, using new technology interventions, and building on translational research to tailor interventions to individuals offer considerable promise for the future.