Evidence-Based Strategies for Cancer Prevention: I-Prevent Cancer Protocol (2025 Edition)

Abstract

Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with incidence rates projected to rise significantly in the coming decades. While advances in treatment have modestly improved survival, prevention through modifiable risk factors remains underemphasized. This review synthesizes current evidence on the role of diet, lifestyle, and dietary supplements in cancer prevention, drawing on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and major guideline recommendations. The I-PREVENT CANCER protocol is introduced as a practical, evidence-based framework for reducing cancer risk.

Introduction

Despite trillions spent on cancer research, cancer still kills around 10 million people a year and is a leading cause of death globally. The incidence of common cancers such as breast, lung, and colon cancer is expected to increase by over 75% between 2022 and 2050. 

While treatment advances offer incremental improvements in survival, prevention strategies—particularly those related to diet and lifestyle—are under-utilised. Ladanie et al (JAMA 2020) showed that over the past fifteen years, new therapies have led to an overall survival improvement of 2.4 months, while Del Paggio et al (JAMA 2021) reported an improvement of 3.4 months over the past thirty years.

This review addresses the evidence supporting preventive measures, including dietary patterns, lifestyle modifications, and select supplements, and introduces the I-PREVENT CANCER protocol as a consumer-oriented guide.

Methodology

A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and major clinical guidelines published between 2000 and 2024. Over 1,000 studies were evaluated, with priority given to high-quality human evidence. The hierarchy of evidence was considered, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses weighted most heavily, followed by large-scale RCTs and observational studies.


Causes of Cancer: Theoretical Perspectives and Risk Factors

Cancer etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic, metabolic, and environmental components. Theories such as the metabolic theory, somatic mutation theory, cancer stem cell theory, and the recently proposed mitochondrial-stem cell connection (MSCC) highlight the complexity of carcinogenesis. The MSCC theory posits that impaired oxidative phosphorylation in stem cells may drive tumorigenesis, emphasizing the importance of metabolic and stem cell pathways.

Lifestyle and environmental factors—including diet, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and exposure to carcinogens—are major modifiable contributors to cancer risk. Standard therapies predominantly target genetic mutations but may not address underlying metabolic dysfunction or cancer stem cells, which are implicated in metastasis and recurrence.


Dietary Patterns and Cancer Prevention

1. American Cancer Society (ACS) Guidelines

The ACS recommends a lifelong healthy eating pattern characterized by:

  • High nutrient density foods supporting healthy body weight
  • Diverse vegetables (including dark green, red, orange, and legumes)
  • Whole fruits and whole grains

The ACS advises limiting:

  • Red and processed meats
  • Sugar-sweetened beverages
  • Highly processed foods and refined grains
2. Mediterranean and Plant-Based Diets


A 2024 review in Nutrients and an umbrella review in PLOS One (2024) support the Mediterranean and plant-based diets for cancer risk reduction. Key findings include:

  • Mediterranean diet adherence is associated with lower cancer risk.

  • Vegetarian and pescetarian diets reduce general and colorectal cancer risk compared to carnivorous diets.

  • High heme and total iron intake increase lung cancer risk, while phytoestrogen intake is protective.

  • Coffee and tea have a neutral effect on cancer risk.

Caution is advised for vegetarians and vegans regarding potential deficiencies in vitamin B12, K2, D, omega-3 fatty acids, and trace minerals.

3. Processed Foods and Sugar

A 2024 umbrella review in BMJ found direct associations between high intake of ultra-processed foods and increased risk of cancer, metabolic dysfunction, and all-cause mortality. Another umbrella review (BMJ 2023) and additional studies link high sugar intake, especially from sugar-sweetened beverages, to increased cancer risk, particularly breast cancer. Cancer cells exhibit elevated glucose uptake, supporting recommendations to limit dietary sugar.

4. Dietary Fiber

A 2023 umbrella review of over 100 studies indicates that high dietary fiber intake is associated with reduced risk of multiple cancers, including colorectal, breast, and endometrial cancers. Fiber likely exerts protective effects via modulation of gut microbiota, reduction of inflammation, and improved metabolic health.


Lifestyle Factors in Cancer Prevention

Key lifestyle recommendations include:

  • Smoking cessation

  • Maintaining a healthy weight

  • Regular physical activity

  • Stress reduction

  • Avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure

Additional preventive measures include ensuring quality sleep, regular medical care, and minimizing exposure to toxins, infections, and known carcinogens.


Evidence-Based Anti-Cancer Supplements

1. Vitamin D3

Low vitamin D status is associated with increased cancer risk and mortality. Supplementation may be beneficial, particularly in populations with documented deficiency.

2. Turmeric (Curcumin)

Curcumin exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, with preclinical evidence supporting anti-cancer effects. Human data are promising but require further validation.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s may reduce inflammation and support metabolic health, with some evidence for reduced cancer risk, particularly colorectal cancer.

4. Vitamin C

High-dose vitamin C has been investigated as an adjunctive therapy, but robust evidence for cancer prevention in humans is lacking.

5. Green Tea Extract (EGCG)

Epidemiological and preclinical studies suggest protective effects, especially in gastrointestinal cancers.

6. Magnesium, Zinc, Probiotics, Garlic, Molecular Hydrogen

These supplements have varying levels of evidence, with some observational and mechanistic support for anti-cancer effects. Further research is needed to establish efficacy and optimal dosing.


Discussion

Current evidence supports a holistic approach to cancer prevention, emphasizing a plant-rich, minimally processed diet, regular physical activity, and avoidance of known carcinogens. Select dietary supplements may offer additional benefit, particularly in individuals with documented deficiencies or increased risk. The I-PREVENT CANCER protocol integrates these findings into a practical framework for consumers and healthcare providers.


Conclusion

The most effective way to reduce cancer risk is through a personalized, multi-faceted strategy that emphasizes overall health. This begins with a nutrient-dense, whole-food diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber—while eliminating ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and harmful additives. Combined with a consistent, healthy lifestyle, these foundational habits form a powerful line of defense against cancer.

Each person’s biological makeup, lifestyle, and health status are unique—so prevention strategies should be, too. It’s crucial to empower yourself with accurate, science-backed medical knowledge, especially the kind that may not always be fully addressed by conventional oncology.

Cancer prevention should never rely on a single intervention. It demands a multi-modal approach—where dietary choices, physical activity, stress management, sleep quality, and environmental awareness work together to support immune function and cellular health. While these habits are scientifically validated to reduce cancer risk, no one diet or lifestyle change alone can eliminate that risk entirely.

Optimal prevention involves integration. Diet and lifestyle must be part of a broader, individualized strategy—potentially incorporating medical screenings, targeted supplementation, or additional therapeutic interventions. Since every body responds differently, a flexible and well-rounded plan offers the best chance for long-term protection.

For deeper insights, consult reliable resources such as the American Cancer Society, which provides research-based guidance on cancer prevention by type. For a broader look at causes, treatments, screening options, and prevention strategies categorized by cancer system, visit this detailed resource hub.

Whether you are navigating a current diagnosis, are in recovery, or simply taking proactive steps for your health, consult your healthcare provider to create a prevention or treatment plan that is safe, evidence-based, and tailored specifically for you. Ongoing research is essential to refine these recommendations and address remaining gaps in knowledge.


Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize a plant-based or Mediterranean diet, rich in fiber and low in processed foods and sugar.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, healthy weight, and avoidance of tobacco and excess alcohol.
  • Consider evidence-based supplementation for individuals at risk of deficiency.
  • Prevention strategies should be individualized and integrated into routine healthcare.

Source: AACR Cancer Progress Report 2024​

This paper is an abridged version of the more comprehensive article (with more than 1000 references). To read the full article, visit I-PREVENT CANCER protocol: An Evidence-Based Guide to Cancer Prevention (2025 Edition).


Cancer Care: The Role of Repurposed Drugs and Metabolic Interventions in Treating Cancer (2nd Edition)



The FLCCC has provided a summary protocol of the key natural and alternative interventions (in order of priority) you can take in order to prevent and treat cancer (Chapter 3: ROLE OF REPURPOSED DRUGS AND METABOLIC INTERVENTIONS IN TREATING CANCER):
  1. Quit smoking. 
  2. Reduce or limit the use of alcohol. 
  3. Lose weight: adopt a healthy diet, manage insulin resistance, and follow a time-restricted eating plan. OneDayMD view: If you have cancer and you are under-weight, this is not for you.
  4. Avoid processed food and processed vegetable oils. 
  5. Avoid sugary beverages and pure fruit juices. 
  6. Limit consumption of red meat to no more than 3 portions/week. 
  7. Vitamin D3: 5000 u/day and adjusted according to vitamin D3 level.
  8. Omega 3 fatty acids: 2-4 g/day.
  9. Green tea catechins: 500-1000 mg/day. Green tea extract should be taken during/after a meal, rather than on an empty stomach. 
  10. Melatonin: 0.75–5 mg (extended/slow release) at night.
  11. Metformin: Metformin should be considered in anyone at high risk of cancer, whether their risk extends from diabetes, pre-diabetes, insulin resistance, chronic viral infection, smoking, or genetics. Requires doctor’s evaluation, approval, and prescription. (Suggested dose ranges from 250-2000 mg daily.) OneDayMD view: If you are not at 'high risk', stick to intervention no. 3.
  12. Regular aerobic exercise and resistance training 30 minutes/day (walking, home strength training, etc.). 
  13. Reduce stress (meditation, yoga, mindfulness exercises, etc.). 
  14. Get at least 8 hours of high-quality sleep (ensure adequate sleep hygiene). 
  15. Avoid known carcinogens. 

Disclaimer

Although this is a comprehensive guide, please do not consider this guide as personal medical advice, but as a recommendation for use with professional providers. Consult with your doctor and discuss with her/him.

Our aim here isn't to replace your doctors' advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information. Do take note that most strategies are not 100% protective against cancer. It's a continuous struggle between the immune system and the cancer cells.

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