An online poll has found only half of British 18-24-year-olds know being overweight is linked to an increased risk of cancer.
The poll was commissioned by PIF member the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) which is campaigning to highlight the link between weight and cancer.
WCRF says more than a quarter of 16-24-year-olds are currently living with overweight or obesity.
It says 4 in 10 cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes such as eating more healthily and keeping physically active.
Other findings from the YouGov poll include:
- Less than 5 in 10 British people know physical inactivity increases cancer risk
- 6 in 10 are aware cancer is linked to an unhealthy diet.
The poll took place in June 2023 and was answered by more than 2,000 UK adults.
WCRF runs an 8-week interactive programme, Activ8, to help people set up healthy habits to reduce their cancer risk.
The programme runs all year round. People can join at any time.
It is meant to be as easy and inspiring as possible while fitting into people’s busy lives.
Find links to Activ8 and read more about the poll results on the WCRF website here.