The strong link between smoking cigarettes and lung cancer is well known and has prompted millions of people to stop smoking. Likewise, the well-established connection between sun exposure and skin cancer has made us aware of the value of wearing sunscreen.

But did you know that three additional lifestyle choices may significantly lower your risk of developing cancer? A recent American Association for Cancer Research report suggests that half of all cancer deaths could be prevented by making smart lifestyle choices that promote a healthy immune system.

The “Magic 3” Lifestyle Choices

Three specific lifestyle choices have been shown to reduce not only general cancer risk, but also the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, uterine cancer and kidney cancer. To reduce your cancer risk, the American Cancer Society has issued the following lifestyle guidelines:

1. Weight. Maintain a healthy weight.

2. Diet. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

3. Exercise. Get at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a day.

Are you doing what you can to prevent cancer? Click here to take the American Cancer Society’s fun Nutrition and Activity Quiz to see whether you are making smart lifestyle choices that can help reduce your cancer risk.

Commit to Living Cancer Smart

Making lifestyle changes is a process; it takes time to build new habits. Talk to your doctor to set weight, diet and exercise goals. Commit to new one dietary change and set one new exercise goal each week. Build on your weekly success until you reach your goals.

Click here to find out more about what you can do to decrease your cancer risk.