WORLD CANCER DAY – HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT
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On World Cancer Day, February 4, Cancer Council Western Australia warned that a lack of understanding about the connection between body weight and cancer was placing Western Australians at increased risk of the disease.
A new scientific report, co-authored by three Western Australians and released today by the International Union Against Cancer (UICC), has identified obesity and overweight as the fastest growing health threat facing the world’s population.
“The issue of rising obesity rates is consistent throughout the developed and underdeveloped world, even in countries where under-nutrition is a problem,” said report co-author, Steve Pratt from Cancer Council WA.
“It doesn’t matter where you look – Australia, the Seychelles, Kenya, suburban Mumbai to regional China or Kazakhstan – people are getting bigger.”
It’s estimated that 30 to 40 per cent of cancer could be prevented by appropriate food and nutrition, regular physical activity, and avoiding obesity.
“The dominant new theme emerging from the past 20 years of research into the causes of cancer is that excess body weight is linked with a range of cancers,” Mr Pratt said.
“Cancer is a common international enemy and with growing girths in childhood and adulthood, it will continue to be so for many decades to come unless action is taken.”
Adults are being urged to lead the way for children.
“Adults need to be a positive influence on kids as they are the ones who are making the decisions about food and activity for children.”
World Cancer Day acknowledges the impact of cancer on people around the world and highlights the worldwide efforts to improve cancer prevention, treatment and care.
The theme for World Cancer Day 2009 is ‘I love my healthy active childhood’.
“While the theme is focused on kids, the call to action is aimed at adults who are a significant influence on the behaviours of children.
“The key message here is that, after quitting smoking, the next best thing you can do to reduce your risk of cancer and that of your children is to maintain a healthy body weight and be physically active,” Mr Pratt said.
“In simple terms, eat less and move more!”
For interviews or more information:
Steve Pratt, Cancer Council WA - 0409110125
A full copy of the report and a series of fact sheets can be found at http://www.worldcancercampaign.org/
