In his discussion on breast cancer prevention, Prof Janssens, President of the European Cancer Prevention Organization in Belgium, agrees that a balanced diet is beneficial. Recognizing that breast cancer is said to originate almost entirely at puberty, Prof Janssens explains that "changing the lifestyle of children will have an effect on growth characteristics (for example menarche) and secondary on breast cancer risk."

There is an increasing focus on preventative studies in oncology research, as Prof Janssens explains that "treatment of cancer is often mutilating and toxic, and above all not able to cure all patients.  To reduce mortality and mutilation as much as possible, prevention is the next step to go. If we consider for example that almost 90 % of lung cancers are from smoking, cessation of smoking would decrease mortality up to 85%."

He goes on to discuss how the focus on cancer prevention has seen a marked decrease in breast cancer mortality.

"The decrease in breast cancer mortality has been mainly achieved by earlier detection through innovations in mammography, ultrasound, and tissue acquisition," he says. "Another important issue is women's awareness. If they feel or see an abnormality, most women will seek immediate help. In addition, women at risk have been better identified by genetic testing, type of mammogram (dense breasts), and appropriately treated with hormonal medication."

In the ongoing battle against cancer, methods of prevention are becoming an increasingly vital field of oncology research.

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