AICR
Those diagnosed with cancer are in constant need of advice on what to eat and how to follow a physical activity regimen to avoid other chronic diseases and recurrence of other cancers.
Our own expert panel’s conclusion that people who have been diagnosed with cancer should aim to follow the Cancer Prevention Recommendations, as far as possible, is based on their examination of what evidence is available, and on what is known about the interactions between diet, weight and physical activity, and cancer biology.
The risk of cancer among cancer survivors is a growing area of research. More research is needed to identify some of the exact mechanisms and identify how strong the links are, in order to make specific diet and activity recommendations for people undergoing treatment and for those living with a cancer diagnosis. But the assessment of the evidence and consensus of the expert panel is that the current recommendations for cancer prevention are unlikely to be harmful in cancer patients. The advice of healthcare professionals should nonetheless be sought to ensure that choices are right for the individual.
The impact of diet, nutrition and physical activity among cancer survivors is one of AICR’s research priorities for the future.
Dr. Steven K. Clinton, is a member of the independent panel of experts evaluating and interpreting the scientific evidence for AICR’s Third Expert Report, Diet, Nutritiom, Physical Activity and Cancer: A Global Perspective. He is Director of genitourinary oncology at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – The James. Here, in this Cancer Survivors Month, he speaks to these issues.
