European Code Against Cancer

In Ireland and in Europe about 1 in 3 people will develop cancer at some stage in their life. The good news is that due to better treatments and picking up cancer earlier, survival rates are improving all the time.

However, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce your risk of cancer. At the same time you can lead a healthier lifestyle:

1. If you smoke, plan to quit.
2. If you drink alcohol, cut down on the amount you drink.
3. Eat a healthy diet by increasing your daily intake of fruit and vegetables and by eating a range of foods low in fat and high in fibre.
4. Be a healthy weight by being more active every day and eating less fatty foods.
5. Protect yourself in the sun and avoid sunburn, especially in children.
6. See your doctor if you notice a lump, a sore that does not heal, a mole that changes in shape, size or colour or bleeds.
7. See your doctor if you have ongoing problems, like a cough or hoarseness, a change in your bowel or bladder habits or unexplained weight loss.