Nutrition & Physical Activity

Studies suggest that 30% to 35% of cancers are diet-related. Risk varies with the type of diet.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (UARC) recently published a report that documented the preventive effect of fruit and vegetable consumption on cancer. The evidence is conclusive for cancer of the mouth and pharynx, esophagus, larynx, lung, stomach, kidney, colon rectum, ovary (vegetables only) and bladder (fruit only).

Studies suggest that 30% to 35% of cancers are diet-related. Risk varies with the type of diet.

The Colorado Cancer Coalition created physical activity and nutrition objectives and strategies in collaboration with our partners to meet coalition goals. This information can be accessed through the Colorado Physical Activity and Nutrition Program and Livewell Colorado.

Vegetables (including legumes such as dry beans and peas), fruits and grains are generally low in fat, and are good sources of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Phyto- chemicals in plant foods, such as carotenoids, indoles, and flavonoids, also may contribute to the observed protective effect.

Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of colon, breast, and possibly endometrial and prostate cancers. Physical activity also helps maintain a healthy weight. In 2003, 41% of Colorado adults age 18 or older exercised for at least 30 minutes, five or more times per week. White, non-Hispanic adults were more likely to exercise than were Hispanic adults (42% and 35%, respectively).

Physical activity can also help mitigate obesity, a nationwide concern linked to many cancers. According to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Facts and Figures 2004, the current obesity and overweight patterns in the U.S. could account for approximately one in seven cancer deaths in men and one in five in women.

Objectives and strategies for nutrition and physical activity for Colorado are coordinated through a comprehensive network of partners and organizations in which the Colorado Cancer Coalition participates.  In order to decrease duplication and increase coordination, the Colorado Cancer Coalition uses these same strategies.