Cancer is the common name used to describe many different conditions caused by the body's cells dividing uncontrollably. Some cancers have no obvious cause, making them very difficult to prevent. Others are inherited and are more likely to affect people who have a close family member with the same condition. Fortunately, the high risk cancer gene faults that run in some families are quite rare.

Sometimes, there is no clear reason why cancer develops. However, the risk of getting some cancers is increased by certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and poor diet.

According to Cancer Research UK, half of all cancers could be prevented by making lifestyle changes such as taking regular exercise or eating a healthier diet. Eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day can reduce the chances of you developing certain types of cancer by as much as 80%. Taking regular exercise can reduce the chances of you developing cancer by 25%.

Smoking

If you are a smoker, the best way to prevent cancer is to quit. Smoking is responsible for 29% of all cancer deaths. Even if you have been smoking for many years, your risk of getting lung cancer will start to decrease as soon as you stop.

Diet

It is recommended that you eat a healthy diet that is low in fat, with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, starchy carbohydrates (bread, potatoes, pasta and wholegrain cereals) and protein rich foods, such as chicken, fish and eggs. Eat plenty of fibre too, such as wholemeal bread and cereals like oats or muesli.

You should aim to aim to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day as fruit and vegetables contain special chemicals known as antioxidants, which are thought to help protect cells from damage. Leafy vegetables such as lettuce, spinach and cabbage are thought to provide the most protection against cancer.

It is recommended that you limit your consumption of red and processed meat to no more than 90 g (3oz). Examples of red and processed meat include beef, lamb, sausages, burgers and pork. Excessive salt consumption has also been linked to an increase risk of cancer, as well as heart disease and stroke. Do not eat more than 6g (0.2oz) of salt per day. 6g of salt is about one teaspoon.

Alcohol

Reducing your alcohol intake will help prevent cancer. The recommended safe limit for units of alcohol per day is two for women and three for men (one unit = half a pint of beer, or a small glass of wine). For positive benefits to your health and general well-being, it is best to have a few alcohol-free days each week.