ABSTRACT
In the year 2000, 6.2 million people died from cancer, and 4.7 million women and 5.3 million men were diagnosed with a malignant tumor [1]. Although mortality rates from cancer are twice as high in developed as in developing countries, the latter are catching up as the smoking epidemic spreads [1]. By 2020, it is anticipated that the global burden of cancer will have increased by 50% because of the prevalence of smoking and other unhealthy lifestyle choices, which are exemplified by the rising incidence of obesity [1,2]. Better screening and earlier diagnosis combined with more effective treatments and palliative care will all be important in management of the growing global cancer burden, but a strong case can be made for a greater focus on cancer prevention [1,3]. The evidence base for cancer prevention policies will include understanding of the biology of the disease and of the factors that contribute to risk for both populations and individuals.
