Oral

In 2007-2008, the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) and the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) systematically examined the research related to the determinants of cancer risk. Their work, culminating in the 2009 Report Policy and Action for Cancer Prevention, describes the physical, environmental, economic, social, behavioral and biological determinants of cancer risk and the impact of socioeconomic disparities on that risk. The Policy and Action Report sought to determine how much cancer could be prevented through diet, physical activity and weight management. These estimates were based on the AICR/WCRF 2007 Expert Report, Food, Nutrition and the Prevention of Cancer; a Global Perspective, findings about how different patterns of diet, physical activity and weight affect risk of cancer. The experts concluded that much of the risk of developing cancer can be mediated by specific, evidence-based public health policies, actions and services. The Report makes recommendations to a wide range of actors who directly or indirectly influence the food intake, physical activity, weight, and health status of populations. These actors include policy-makers and decision-makers in multinational bodies, civil society organizations; governments; industries related to food and drink; physical activity, recreation and leisure; the built environment; media; schools; workplaces and institutional environments; and the health system. The AICR/WCRF Policy Report justifies its recommendations using the scientific evidence. It identifies considerations that must be addressed, including political feasibility and acceptability, benefits and harms, acceptability, costs and timeframes. The scientific findings outlined by the Report provide guidance for needed actions and point to new directions in nutrition and food policy research. Outline of Session: • Research basis for causes of disparities in cancer rates and mortality. • Evidence-base for how much cancer could be prevented • Key messages from Policy and Action for Cancer Prevention report • Recommendations on crafting nutrition policy to prevent cancer

Session Objectives: Examine the latest research on inequalities in cancer occurrence. Define the latest cancer preventability statistics for the USA and the methodology behind the calculations. Explain the evidence base for policy development and action in relation to cancer prevention. Address how specific policy approaches in the US can support reducing inequality for cancer prevention.