[Role of nutrition in cancer risk]

Among the factors involved in the risk of cancer, nutritional factors are modifiable ones. Evaluation of the current knowledge by expert groups, notably the group of experts from the French network for Nutrition and Cancer Research (NACRe network) coordinated by the French National Institute of Cancer (INCa), has permitted to establish levels of evidence graded as convincing or probable for the relationships between several nutritional factors judged as relevant for the French population and cancer risk. Considering these factors in an integrated way and addressing overall cancer risk, four priority nutritional objectives were identified for cancer prevention in the general population: to reduce the consumption of alcoholic beverages, to have a balanced and diversified diet, to be physically active; and to promote breastfeeding (for women of childbearing age). Health professionals are strongly encouraged to communicate these objectives to their patients.