Prevention in The Utah State Cancer Plan for 2026-2030

How Does Alcohol Affect Cancer?

Alcohol use can lead to liver, breast, colorectal, head and neck, pancreatic and esophageal cancer. (U.S. Surgeon General’s 2025 Advisory – Alcohol and Cancer Risk) Preventing and treating addiction and decreasing overconsumption should be the focus of preventing alcohol-related cancers. (1)

Minimize Cancer Risk From Alcohol

• Drink Less or None
  • The risk of cancer begins to increase even with small amounts of alcohol. Eliminating it offers the best protection.
• Follow Recommended Limits
  • If consumed, keep intake to a maximum of 1 drink/day for women and up to 2 drinks/day for men.
• Avoid Smoking
  • Combining alcohol with tobacco significantly increases the risk of mouth and throat cancers.
• Watch Serving Sizes
  • One standard drink is 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of 80-proof spirits.

Take Action

Promote

• Inform about the link between cancer and alcohol.
• Educate about advantages of limiting alcohol consumption.

Partner

• Partner with state alcohol prevention efforts.
• Promote screening and brief intervention for alcohol overconsumption.
• Increase addiction treatment referral pathways for cancer patients with alcohol addictions.

Policy

• Work with alcohol prevention and treatment coalitions in Utah to review Utah’s alcohol policies and look for areas of improvement.
• Increase alcohol tax.
• Regulate the number of alcohol outlets.
• Reduce alcohol marketing.

Data

References

(1) Alcohol and cancer prevention

How does environmental exposure affect cancer?

There are causal relationships between environmental exposures and development of cancer in specific organs (e.g., inhalation of asbestos and mesothelioma).

Rates for the public can be found on the EPHT tracking network or IBIS. (1)

Minimize Cancer Risk From Air and Water Quality

• Monitor air quality.
  • Check local air quality reports and wear masks if necessary when pollution levels are high.
  • Limit outdoor activities on poor air quality days.
• Decrease pollution.
  • Work from home, carpool or take public transportation.
• Indoor filtration.
  • Use air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to remove particulate matter and dangerous carcinogens.
• Use quality controlled water.
  • Only drink water from sources that have been checked for contaminants, such as city approved drinking water.

Data Point	For Sensitive Groups	For Everyone	Source
Air pollution days unhealthy level	65	8	American Lung Association 2025
Ozone days unhealthy level	19	4	American Lung Association 2025

Take Action

Promote

• Provide education on links between environmental contaminants and possible health effects.
• Promote the development of urban green spaces and shade.

Partner

• Partner with Utah Department of Environmental Health.
• Provide community pollutant clean up.
• Improve air quality surveillance systems.
• Encourage decreased vehicle use during red-air quality days.

Policy

• Improve laws around emissions and pollution control.
• Regulate chemicals and product safety.
• Improve water quality standards.
• Establish building codes that mandate radon prevention measures in new construction and require testing in existing structures.
• Encourage water testing and filtration.
• Increase requirements for emissions.
• Create policies working from home and carpooling where possible to improve air quality.

References

(1) Environmental Cancer Topics and Data IBIS

(2) Site Specific (Known Contaminant Source): APPLETREE

(3) Utah Cancer Registry

(4) IBIS

(5) Known cancer causing substances

How Does HPV Vaccination Affect Cancer?

The HPV vaccine prevents cancer by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that neutralize the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) before it can infect cells.

It works similarly to other vaccines, using non-infectious proteins to teach the body to fight specific cancer-causing strains, offering up to 90% protection against HPV-induced cancers. (1) Getting the HPV vaccine is the most effective way to prevent against HPV related cancers.

Minimize Cancer Risk from HPV

• Get Vaccinated
  • The CDC recommends vaccination for children aged 11–12, but it can be given from age 9 up to 26.
  • Adults aged 27–45 should discuss with their doctor if the vaccine is appropriate.
• Vaccine Doses
  • Children starting before age 15 need 2 doses; those starting at 15 or older need 3 doses. (2)

Data Point	Rate	Source
Adolescents receiving two doses of the HPV vaccine	61.2%	IBIS 2023

Take Action

Promote

• Public messaging to get youth vaccinated.
• Support the use of reminder systems in provider offices to increase HPV vaccination completion rates.
• Educate partners on financial resources available for uninsured and underinsured populations for the HPV vaccine.
• Educate dental offices starting at Community Health Centers on cancer prevention (HPV) related to oral cancers.

Partner

• Provider education to prioritize HPV vaccination starting at 9 years old.
• Encourage dental professionals to refer patients to HPV vaccine providers.
• Educate health systems and develop provider-to-parent messaging to recommend vaccination (HPV vaccination).
• Encourage implementation of evidence-based interventions to increase adolescent vaccination rates.
• Encourage training for healthcare providers on evidence-based HPV vaccine practices.
• Encourage partners to provide vaccines or vaccine information at community events such as health fairs.
• Encourage schools to offer HPV vaccinations during their Back to School or Registration Clinics.

Policy

• Insurances to cover HPV vaccines.
• Encourage/incentivize local health departments (LHD) to provide vaccines.

References

(1) HPV Game Changer for Preventing Cancer in Women

(2) Preventing HPV Associated Cancers

How Does Nutrition Affect Cancer

Nutrition affects cancer risk by influencing inflammation, blood glucose, and the gut microbiome, with high-fiber diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains generally lowering risk. Conversely, processed and red meats, excessive sugar, refined carbohydrates, and alcohol can increase risk by promoting inflammation, obesity, and the formation of cancer causing compounds. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet is a key strategy for reducing cancer risk. (1)

Minimize Cancer Risk from Nutrition Factors

• Prioritize Plant-Based Foods
  • Fill two-thirds of your plate with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans. These foods are nutrient-dense and high in fiber, which helps maintain a healthy weight and lowers colorectal cancer risk.
• Limit Processed and Red Meats
  • Avoid or strictly limit processed meats (bacon, sausage, hot dogs) and reduce red meat intake (beef, pork, lamb), as they are linked to increased colorectal cancer risk.
• Reduce Sugar and Refined Carbs
  • Minimize added sugars and sugary drinks, which contribute to obesity—a major risk factor for several cancers.
• Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods
  • Focus on whole foods rather than supplements to obtain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Data Point	Rate	Source
Utahns who eat more than 5 servings of fruits and vegetables	13.3%	BRFSS 2021
Utah children reporting they skipped one or more meals because their family didn’t have enough money to buy food	13%	SHARP 2025

Take Action

Promote

• Teach children and adults about healthy eating, focusing on nutrient-rich foods and proper portion sizes.
• Offer low-cost community cooking classes to help people learn how to make healthy, affordable meals.

Partner

• Provide whole foods for school lunches.
• Create garden space at schools to grow fresh produce for lunches.
• Work with city planning and governments to reduce food deserts.
• Create partnerships with restaurants to support healthy eating initiatives in restaurants that focus on offering affordable fruit and vegetable menu options.
• Provide assistance to the largest employers in the state to incorporate and promote evidence-based nutrition, and physical activity interventions into worksite wellness programs.
• Work with community partners and leaders to increase access to affordable, healthy foods in communities and places of work.

Policy

• Expand food assistance programs.
• Support nutrition incentive programs such as Double Up Food Bucks, Produce Rx and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
• Offer fruit and vegetable voucher programs or produce prescriptions to make healthy foods more affordable.
• Advocate for policies that limit the sale of less healthy foods in schools and promote healthy eating across communities.
• Put policies and activities in place at schools that encourage good eating habits among kids and teens.

References

(1) Diet and Cancer Prevention

How Does Physical Activity Affect Cancer

Regular physical activity including both cardio and strength training is associated with a decreased risk of several cancers, including breast, colon, endometrial, kidney, and lung cancers. Even light-intensity activities, such as household chores, and reducing sedentary time can contribute to a lower risk of developing cancer. (1)

Physical activity lowers cancer risk by helping with weight control, body composition, regulating hormones like estrogen and insulin, reducing inflammation, and improving immune function.

Minimize Cancer Risk from Physical Activity Factors

• Cardio
  • Aim for at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (e.g., brisk walking, cycling) or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (e.g., running, swimming) per week.
• Strength
  • Incorporate muscle-strengthening exercises at least 2 days a week.
• Daily Activity
  • Even light-intensity daily physical activity, such as higher daily step counts, is associated with a lower risk of cancer.
• Avoid being sedentary.
  • Limit sitting, lying down, and screen-based entertainment.

Data Point	Rate	Source
Adults reporting adequate physical activity levels	33.1%	BRFSS 2023
Youth ages 12-18 who report being active 7 days a week	20%	SHARP 2025

Take Action

Promotion

• Encourage residents to meet the recommended 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity and two strength training sessions each week to support overall health.
• Support communities through the Healthy Utah Community Designation, which provides strategies to enhance access to healthy foods and create spaces that promote active living.

Partner

• Improve infrastructure, develop and maintain safe, accessible walking and biking paths, public transit, and green spaces.
• Increase access to active transportation, encourage walking and biking for commuting and recreation by designing communities with mixed-use development and destinations within walking distance.
• Provide safe parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities that are away from busy streets, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to be active.
• Promote the adoption of physical activity in early childcare and education.

Policy

• Advocate for health insurance companies to cover gym memberships.
• Support policies that improve access to physical activity opportunities, regulate the quality of physical education in schools, and provide funding for physical activity promotion.

References

(1) Physical Activity and Cancer, IBIS

How Does Radon Affect Cancer

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the US every year.

Minimize Cancer Risk from Radon

• Test Your Home
  • Use a DIY kit or hire a professional to test for radon, specifically in the lowest living areas.
• Install Mitigation Systems
  • Hire a certified contractor to install a vent pipe and fan system that pulls gas from under the foundation and exhausts it outside.
• Seal Entry Points
  • Close cracks in concrete floors, walls, and foundations to block radon entry.
• Improve Ventilation
  • Use fans and open windows to increase air circulation, especially in basements and crawl spaces.

Data Point	Rate	Source
Total number of radon tests	15,682	IBIS 2022
Utah homes testing higher than 4 pCi/L	49%	IBIS 2022

Take Action

Promote

• Increase awareness of testing and mitigation options.
• Promote the State Radon campaign.
• Targeted testing of homes that may never have been radon tested.

Partner

• Work with local health departments on their radon promotion efforts.
• Work with Utah Radon to provide financial incentives to reduce barriers to testing and mitigation.
• Partner with real estate agents to encourage radon testing.

Policy

• Radon testing for new homes and buildings decreases risk of radon exposure.
• Strengthen radon testing and mitigation requirements for Home Owners Associations.
• Acknowledge radon awareness month.
• Increase support for radon mitigation.
• Increase protections for workplace exposures such as construction, miners, fire fighters.

References

(1) Surgeon General Radon Advisory

How Does Sun Safety Affect Cancer?

Sun exposure is directly linked to many types of skin cancer. Sun rays can damage cells and lead to cancer. (1)

Utah has the highest rate of melanoma incidence in the US (42.2 Utah vs 23.1 US) and the second highest mortality rate (2.7 vs 2.0 US). This means that Utahns are at an increased risk for skin cancer compared to people in other states. (2)

Minimize Cancer Risk from Sun Exposure

• Seek Shade
  • Use umbrellas, trees, or shelters.
• Wear Protective Clothing
  • Choose tightly woven fabrics, long sleeves, long pants, and hats with wide brims to protect the face, ears, and neck.
• Use Sunscreen Properly
  • Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
• Protect Eyes
  • Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield the eyes and surrounding skin.
• Avoid Tanning Beds
  • Artificial tanning sources increase UV radiation risk.

Data Point	Rate	Source
Individuals participating in any sun safety behaviors	34%	BRFSS 2012
Tree canopy cover	12%	Tree Equity Score 2025

Take Action

Promote

• Provide information related to sun safety at parks, trailheads, ski resorts, schools, and other places where people regularly engage in outdoor activities.
• General sun safety education/campaign.
• Provide information on the risks of tanning.
• Skin cancer rates are higher in Utah for all races. Promote resources and information specifically on the risk of cancer, even for darker skin tones.
• Educate about differences in skin cancer appearance on different skin tones.

Partner

• Provide sunscreen and sun shades at community venues including:
  • Parks
  • Mountain resorts
  • State parks
  • Schools
  • Other outdoor community locations
• Plant and maintain shade trees in community locations.

Policy

• Promote policies restricting tanning bed use for youth.
• Promote policies requiring trees be planted in new developments like in park strips.

References

(1) Taylor and Francis Online

(2) Melanoma Indicator IBIS

(3) Tree Equity Score State of Utah

How Does Tobacco Exposure Affect Cancer?

Commercial tobacco use is the leading cause of lung cancer in Utah and the United States. Quitting and decreasing exposure to all types of tobacco leads to a decrease in lung, mouth, throat, and other cancers. Preventing commercial tobacco use and encouraging quitting should be the primary focus for preventing associated cancers.

Minimize Cancer Risk from Tobacco

• Quit Smoking or Using Tobacco
  • Quitting at any age significantly reduces risk, with benefits increasing the sooner you stop. After 20 years, risks for certain cancers approach those of a non-smoker.
• Avoid Secondhand Smoke
  • Exposure to others’ smoke increases cancer risk, so make your home and car smoke-free.
• Do Not Switch to “Light” Products
  • There is no safe tobacco product, including cigars, pipes, or smokeless tobacco. Reducing cigarette consumption helps, but quitting entirely is far more effective.

Data Point	Rate	Source
Current adult smokers in Utah	5.8%	BRFSS 2024
12-18 year-olds who have tried cigarettes	3.2%	SHARP 2025
12-18 year-olds who have tried vaping	8.1%	SHARP 2025

Take Action

Promotion

• Utah Tobacco and Nicotine Quit Services
  • 1.800.QUIT.NOW
  • Waytoquit.org
  • My Life, My Quit
• Tobacco prevention campaigns

Partner

• Offer tobacco cessation support in clinics, hospitals and other healthcare locations.
• Increase enforcement of tobacco free business, school, and community locations.

Policy

• Increase tax on tobacco products.
• Expand tobacco free location policies.
• Implement and enforce comprehensive smoke-free laws for all public places, workplaces, and multi-unit housing to protect people from secondhand smoke.
• Restrict product access, limit access to tobacco products, especially for minors, to prevent initiation of tobacco use.

References

(1) Smoking and Cancer

(2) Tobacco Use Causes Cancer Throughout the Body

(3) Tobacco Prevention and Control in Utah