Dealing with fat and alcohol are the keys to beating cancer – not fruit and vegetables, according to a controversial analysis published today.
Researchers say the evidence that a good diet beats cancer is still "not convincing".
Tobacco, obesity and alcohol are the main life-style factors linked to the development of disease, according to Professor Tim Key, of Oxford University, UK.
He said today: "Fruit and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet and a good source of nutrients. But so far the data does not prove that eating increased amounts of fruit and vegetables offers much protection against cancer.
"But there’s strong scientific evidence to show that, after smoking, being overweight and alcohol are two of the biggest cancer risks."
Professor Key’s analysis is published in the British Journal of Cancer today. They are controversial – especially as much recent research has focused on potential anti-cancer properties of chemicals found in vegetables such as broccoli.
But the findings were rejected by the British Dietetic Association – which said eating fruit and vegetables was second only to smoking in beating cancer.
It said eating fruit and vegetables was a key part of keeping weight down.
A spokesman said: “It has been estimated that diet is likely to contribute to the development of one-third of all cancers, and that eating more fruits and vegetables is the second most important cancer prevention strategy, after stopping smoking.
“There is evidence to show that for every portion of fruits and vegetables eaten there is greater protection against strokes and some cancers. Other health benefits found have included a delay in the development of cataracts, reducing the symptoms of asthma, improving bowel function and better management of diabetes.
“Including more fruits and vegetables in the diet reduces the overall calorie density, which helps us to maintain a healthier weight.”
Sarah Hiom, of Cancer Research UK, said: "Too few people know about the significant cancer risks associated with obesity and drinking too much alcohol.
"While stopping smoking remains the best way to cut your chances of developing cancer, the importance of keeping a healthy weight and cutting down on alcohol shouldn’t be overlooked."
Fruit and vegetables and cancer risk, Key TJ, British Journal of Cancer December 2010
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