Title: Risk Factors for Cancer - Cancer - Merck Manuals Consumer Version
Headings: Risk Factors for Cancer
Risk Factors for Cancer
Family history
Genes and chromosomes
Age
Environmental factors
Geography
Diet
Drugs and medical treatments
Table
Some Carcinogens
Infections
Inflammatory disorders
Drugs Mentioned In This Article
Was This Page Helpful?
Others also read
Also of Interest
Merck and the Merck Manuals

Content: In contrast, the Japanese have extremely high rates of stomach cancer. When these people immigrate to the United States and eat a Western diet, the risk declines to that of the United States, although the decline may not be evident until the next generation. Diet
Substances consumed in the diet can increase the risk of cancer. For instance, a diet high in unsaturated fat, and obesity by itself, have been linked to an increased risk of colon, breast, and possibly prostate cancer. People who drink large amounts of alcohol are at much higher risk of developing head and neck cancer and esophageal cancer. A diet high in smoked and pickled foods or in barbecued meats increases the risk of developing stomach cancer. People who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of cancer of the breast, lining of the uterus (endometrium), colon, kidneys, and esophagus. Drugs and medical treatments
Certain drugs and medical treatments may increase the risk of developing cancer. For example, estrogens in oral contraceptives may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, but this risk decreases over time. The hormones estrogen and progestin that may be given to women during menopause (hormone replacement therapy) also increase the risk of breast cancer.