A cancer doctor has revealed the two things he wants people to cut back on in their diets this year. According to the oncologist, these popular foods and drinks could be raising your risk of the deadly disease.

While your risk of cancer can be linked to factors outside of your control such as genetics and age, Cancer Research UK estimates around four in 10 cancers could be prevented. This includes making changes to your diet.

With this in mind, radiation oncologist Doctor Jiri Kubes said ditching two food and drink items from your diet can mean a happier, healthier life.

He explained: “Some of what drives cancer is outside of our control, such as genetics and age, but diet and lifestyle do play a part.”

He urged people to cut back on their intake of processed meat and alcohol. He continued: “Processed meat and alcohol have both been named as carcinogens by the World Health Organisation (WHO). 

“The advice is that cutting back on both of these things is better for overall health.” His advice is backed by Cancer Research UK, which says: “Eating lots of processed meat can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

“We know for definite that processed meat is a cause of cancer. We are as sure of this link as we are for other proven causes of cancer, like tobacco and alcohol.”

Dr Kubes explained that drinking alcohol damages the cells and can stop them repairing in the way they should. It can also disrupt hormones, causing cells to divide more often and increasing the risk of cancer developing.

Dr Kubes, medical director of the Proton Therapy Centre in Prague, continued: “Drinking alcohol raises the risk of cancer in the liver and colon, among others. It is not known at which point the risks are raised, but we know the more alcohol you drink, the higher your risk.” 

And when it comes to processed meat, the WHO says there is “sufficient” evidence that it is linked to colorectal cancer, which is also known as bowel cancer. Processed meat is classed as anything that has been preserved in some way, such as smoking, curing or salting. 

This includes ham, sausages, hot dogs and corned beef. Dr Kubes said: “The advice is that processed meats should be eaten in moderation. 

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“Along with reducing the amount of processed meat, sticking to a healthy diet rich in fruit, wholegrains and vegetables is important.”

Government guidelines in the UK suggest anyone who eats more than 90 grams of processed meat a day should cut down to around 70g a day. Other risk factors for cancer that are within your control include your weight and how much exercise you do.

Dr Kubes added: “Maintaining a healthy weight and keeping active are really important for overall health. If you are worried about your risk of any types of cancers or any symptoms, always speak to your doctor.”