Cancer Research UK: Statement on obesity and cancer link
Wednesday, 23 Aug 2006 15:05
This statement is in response to today's announcement by the government to tackle obesity in England by appointing a "minister for fitness".
Dr Lesley Walker, director of cancer information at Cancer Research UK, said:
“We know that overweight and obese children are most likely to continue carrying too much weight when they become adults and this will substantially increase their cancer risk as they grow older.
"Obesity is one of the biggest known preventable causes of cancer for those who don’t smoke. Education and support are vital components in tackling the alarming rise in obesity in this country.
"Cancer Research UK's Reduce the Risk campaign offers people health messages and practical advice they can use to change unhealthy habits for healthy ones."
Notes to editors
Cancer Research UK has joined forces with the charity Weight Concern to develop Ten Top Tips – a set of weight management guidelines that can be incorporated into everyday routines without radical lifestyle change. The scientifically-based programme involves adopting ten simple steps and using a weekly checklist over eight weeks to monitor progress and help reinforce the new habits.
Obesity and Cancer Link