In a bid to raise awareness about cancer prevention, the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association has unveiled a new version of its practical anti-cancer handbook, China’s Essential Cancer Prevention & Care Guide, just ahead of National Cancer Prevention and Awareness Week.
Wu Yongzhong, Party secretary of Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, emphasized that cancer can be prevented and controlled. “Many types of cancer can be avoided by managing risk factors, such as smoking and drinking, and adopting lifestyle changes,” he said.
Tian Yantao, head of the Science Popularization Department of the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association, highlighted the importance of healthy habits. “Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and keeping a healthy weight are key to cancer prevention,” Tian noted.
The handbook points out that being overweight or obese increases the risk of at least 13 types of cancer, including colorectal, esophageal, and liver cancers. It provides guidelines on maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI), stating that in China, a normal BMI range for adults is between 18.5 and 24. A BMI between 24 and 28 is considered overweight, while a BMI of 28 or higher is classified as obese.
Beyond weight management, the handbook offers other preventive measures such as timely vaccinations, quitting smoking and drinking, reducing sugar intake, and not sharing personal hygiene items.
National Cancer Prevention and Awareness Week, observed annually from April 15 to 21, was initiated by the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association in 1995. The theme for 2025 is “Prevent Cancer Scientifically, Live a Healthy Life.” The initiative aims to encourage the public to embrace healthy lifestyles, urge high-risk groups to undergo early screenings, and guide patients to seek timely, standardized medical care.
