Cancer Prevention through Lifestyle Intervention and Public Health Strategies

Abstract

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although therapeutic advances have significantly improved survival outcomes, a substantial proportion of cancers arise from preventable lifestyle and environmental factors. Evidence indicates that nearly 70% of cancers are associated with modifiable behaviours such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, unhealthy dietary patterns, obesity, physical inactivity, infections, and environmental exposures. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of lifestyle related carcinogenic exposures, underlying biological mechanisms, epidemiological evidence, and public health interventions aimed at reducing cancer risk. The paper synthesizes findings from toxicological studies, epidemiological investigations, mechanistic research, and policy level strategies. Emphasis is placed on primary prevention through behavioural modification, population level interventions, and early life education. Strengthening lifestyle based prevention strategies represents one of the most effective, affordable, and scalable approaches for reducing global cancer burden.