A Narrative Review of the Risk Factors for Cancer and the Preventive Opportunities: Current Status, Future Perspectives, and Implications for India

Introduction Clinical cancer can arise from heterogenous pathways through various genetic mutations. Although we cannot predict the timeline by which an individual will develop cancer, certain risk assessment tools can be used among high-risk groups for focusing the preventive activities. As primary level of cancer prevention, healthy lifestyle approach is being promoted. The etiological factors for lung cancer include by-products of industrialization and air pollution. We need to factor the increase in household air pollution as well. Methods “PubMed” database and Google search engines were used for searching the relevant articles. Search terms with Boolean operators used include “Cancer prevention,” “Missed opportunities in cancer causation,” and “incidence of risk factors.” This review includes 20 studies and other relevant literature that address the opportunities for cancer prevention. Body The narrative describes the association between many of the risk factors and development of cancer. This includes tobacco, alcohol, infections, air pollution, physical inactivity, diet, obesity, screening and preventive strategies, chemoprevention, biomarkers of carcinogenesis, and factors that prolong the diagnosis of cancer. Discussion Reports from basic science research provide evidence on the potential of biologically active food components and pharmacological agents for mitigating the risk of cancer and its progression. However, some reports from observational studies and randomized trials have been inconsistent. We need to recognize the impact of sociodemographic factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, culture, and comorbid illness on preventive interventions. Spiral computed tomographic scan is a robust tool for early detection of lung cancer. Conclusion Infectious etiology for specific cancers provides opportunities for prevention and treatment. The complex interplay between man and microbial flora needs to be dissected, for understanding the pathogenesis of relevant malignancies. For reducing the morbidity of cancer, we need to focus on prevention as a priority strategy and intervene early during the carcinogenic process.