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Midlife: A Critical Period in the Life Course for Cancer Risk and Prevention

Evidence also supports, to varying degrees, an association between increased risk for certain cancers and prevalent behaviors among U.S. adults, such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, poor sleep hygiene, a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables and high in red and processed meats, and insufficient physical activity. Recent research indicated that interventions on these behaviors at midlife can be effective at reducing cancer incidence and death.
In addition to behavioral risk factors, many known human carcinogens are highly prevalent in the general environment, consumer products, or the workplace. Policies that reduce exposure to known carcinogens have been found to reduce cancer risk. Of particular importance and relevance for adults in midlife is the workplace—an important setting for comprehensive strategies that protect and promote health for adults at midlife and at older ages.
Efforts that support healthy environments, the management of chronic conditions, and healthy behaviors may facilitate a healthier transition from midlife to older age and reduce the likelihood of cancer.
Learning Areas:
Chronic disease management and preventionEpidemiology
Occupational health and safety
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs
Public health or related research
Social and behavioral sciences
Learning Objectives:
Describe recent statistics and evidence that highlight potential opportunities for cancer prevention at midlife and beyond.
Keyword(s): Aging, Cancer
Not Answered