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Cancer prevention campaign begins

One in three people in Northern Ireland will develop cancer during their lifetime.

A year-long campaign aimed at increasing prevention of the disease has been launched by the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF).

The campaign 'Cancer can be prevented too' will educate local people on simple measures they can take to prevent cancer.

About 10,700 people are diagnosed with cancer every year in Northern Ireland.

Gerry McElwee of the UCF said most cancers could be prevented and by making lifestyle changes there could be a dramatic fall in cancer rates.

"Research shows that around two thirds of all cancers could be prevented if we stop smoking, avoid sunburn, eat a varied diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, maintain a healthy weight and lead an active lifestyle," he said.

"Diet alone has been linked to at least 35% of cancers so eating 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day is a simple but very important health message," he said.

"We all have the power to reduce our risk of cancer."

UCF provides a range of interactive education programmes which include training, presentations and workshops to help local people adopt healthy, realistic strategies to help prevent cancer.

It also provides a free stop smoking service.

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