Give up smoking.

Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables...the WHO estimates that almost one fifth of gastrointestinal cancer results from not eating enough fruit and veg, and many studies suggest that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables reduces cancer risk. Aim for least 5 portions per day (10 would be better!). See our fruit and veg page for more information on fruit, veg and health. If you are a parent, click here for some practical tips encouraging your family to eat more fruit/veg.

Take exercise...for example, regular exercise reduces risk for colon cancer by 50%. See our physical activity page for more information.

Avoid being overweight.

Don't consume excessive alcohol...limit your intake to less than 2 units per day and avoid binge drinking.

Moderate your consumption of salt preserved foods (e.g. bacon).

Avoid scalding hot food/drink...excessively hot food damages sensitive cells in your mouth and throat, and increases risk for certain cancers...so wait for your coffee to cool down before drinking.

Be sun-safe...avoid sun-beds, keep yourself and your family covered up in the sun, by using appropriate clothing, hats and sunblock. Be especially careful if you have a pale complexion. When your skin becomes red and sore after sun exposure, even when you're not sunburned, your skin cells have been damaged by the sun's radiation. This increases the risk of skin cancer.