# Can cancer be prevented?

Source: https://oncologyistanbul.com/answers/can-cancer-be-prevented
Last updated: 2026-07-13

The U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) defines cancer prevention as action taken to lower the risk of getting cancer. It is usually not possible to know exactly why one person develops cancer and another does not. Limiting your exposure to avoidable risk factors, such as tobacco, alcohol, an unhealthy diet, excess weight, and too much sun or UV, may lower your risk of developing certain cancers. This is general information, not personal medical advice.

## Verify at
- [Risk Factors for Cancer](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk) — National Cancer Institute (NCI) (checked 2026-07-13)
- [Cancer Causes and Prevention](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention) — National Cancer Institute (NCI) (checked 2026-07-13)

Related: [What cancer screening is](https://oncologyistanbul.com/answers/what-is-cancer-screening)