• Cancer begins in a single cell in virtually any part of the body.
• Many cancer promoters recognized today, such as tobacco, dietary fat and excess sun exposure are avoidable.
• Cancer is the second most common cause of death, accounting for 1 of every 4 deaths in the U.S.
• The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that 559,650 Americans will die from cancer in 2007.
• The percentage of cancer patients who lived 5 years after being diagnosed between 1996 and 2002 is 66% — it was 51% in 1975-1977. The improvement is due to diagnosing cancer at an earlier stage and better treatment, according to the ACS.
• For women, breast (26%), lung (15%) and colorectal (11%) are the top three sites of new cancer diagnoses the ACS estimates will be made in 2007.
• For men, prostate (29%), lung (15%) and colorectal (10%) are the top three sites of new cancer diagnoses the ACS estimates will be made in 2007.
• Your risk of cancer increases with the amount of alcohol you consume and the length of time you've been drinking regularly. Even a moderate amount may increase your risk.
• Eating a daily diet of plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and grains can help protect against many cancers.
• To detect cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages, ask your provider about your personal need for screening. Exams may include prostate, breast, cervical, colorectal and skin.

Source: Cancer Facts and Figures: 2007. American Cancer Society. 

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