Evaluating Effectiveness of Primary Prevention of Cancer

by Hakama, M.; Beral, V.; Cullen, J. W.; Parkin, D. M.

• ISBN13: 9789283221036
• ISBN10: 9283221036
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1991-01-17
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

This book examines the current state of evidence relating to the effectiveness of primary prevention measures. The identification of environmental and lifestyle factors as causes of cancer means that the theoretical basis for the prevention of cancer is well established. Despite this, there have been relatively few studies which examine the effectiveness of different strategies in reducing cancer-causing exposures, and even fewer where the results in terms of cancers avoided can be assessed. Most such evidence derives from observational studies, which show that changes in cancer incidence occur when diet or tobacco use are modified, even in modification is not the result of an organized preventive action. The occupational field too provides good examples of reduction in exposure to carcinogens if not always because of their carcinogenic hazard and consequent reductions in cancer incidence. This volume provides an in-depth study of four intervention studies, examining their outcome in terms of cancer risk. It also reviews the results of several other previously published studies, and provides a convenient summary of results as well as information on future prospects.