Harriet Chan - World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF UK) Corporate Development

Never has the health of the nation been such an urgent topic of discussion among policy makers, the media, food industry and health organisations.

That’s why World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF UK) is urging the fresh produce sector to get behind Fruity Friday on May 13 - a national awareness day to promote the importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle in the prevention of cancer.

Fruity Friday - the highlight of WCRF UK’s Cancer Prevention Week running from May 9-15 is encouraging everyone, particularly children, to eat more fruit and vegetables as part of a healthier 5 A DAY diet. Studies have shown that we can cut our risk of cancer by up to 40 per cent by making simple lifestyle changes, such as eating more plant-based food, increasing our consumption of fruit and vegetables, watching our weight and taking regular exercise.

About 260,000 cases of cancer are diagnosed in the UK each year and there is increasing evidence from all over the world that nutrition plays a major role in the development of the disease. For instance, did you know that eating fruit and vegetables is the second most effective way to reduce the risk of developing cancer, after not smoking? Despite this fact few people realise that diet and lifestyle can influence cancer risk.

It is therefore vital that people are made aware of the steps they can take to reduce their chances of getting cancer. With backing from the fresh produce sector, we hope that Fruity Friday will reinforce the message that by eating healthily and maintaining a healthier lifestyle you can significantly reduce your risk of cancer.

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