Scientist - Professor Martin Wiseman

Professor Martin Wiseman, our Medical and Scientific Adviser, is one of the country’s leading experts on the links between diet, weight, physical activity and cancer.

I CAN... Medical and Scientific Advisor Prof Martin Wiseman

Martin believes that I CAN... is a great way to introduce easy, healthy lifestyle changes that can help make you less likely to get cancer.

"We know that about a third of common cancers can be prevented through healthy patterns of diet and physical activity, and being a healthy weight," Martin says.

"We have strong evidence that being active reduces the risk of breast, womb, and bowel cancer, which is why it’s important to be active for at least 30 minutes a day.

"We also know that being overweight increases the risk of ten cancers, so it’s crucial to maintain a healthy weight. Studies have shown that storing too much fat encourages the body to produce hormones and other chemicals that are linked to a higher risk of cancer. It’s important to maintain a healthy weight as, after smoking, being overweight is the biggest cancer risk factor that you can do something about.

"The other step you can take to help reduce your cancer risk is to eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in wholegrains, beans, vegetables and fruits, can help reduce your risk as they are lower in calories but high in fibre, which helps to keep you full and manage your weight. They are also rich in nutrients, which help keep your body and immune system healthy.

"I CAN... helps you to make these simple, healthy changes, and can help you to reduce your cancer risk."