Risk Factors for Cancer

While everyone is at risk for cancer, some people or groups are at greater risk than others. Age is the greatest risk factor for cancer, because nearly 80 percent of cancers are diagnosed at age 55 and older. People who use tobacco, drink heavily, are physically inactive, eat a poor diet, are regularly exposed to carcinogens in their occupation or have prolonged and unprotected exposure to sunlight are all at increased risk for certain cancers. Among racial/ethnic groups:

• African Americans have higher rates of lung, prostate and colorectal cancers.
• Whites have higher rates of melanoma, testicular cancer, leukemia and bladder cancer.
• Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders and American Indians (including Alaska Natives) have higher rates of liver and stomach cancer.
   

While everyone should follow cancer prevention and screening guidelines, those at highest risk for specific cancers should be particularly attentive to screening recommendations and to symptoms of these cancers and seek prompt medical attention if they occur.

Last Updated: 7/15/03

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