see Health behaviors and cancer screening among Californians with a family history of cancer
Public health messages about the ways people can reduce their risk of cancer may not be making an impact on those with a family history of the disease, according to a new population-based study reported in this issue. Researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention used data from the 2005 California Health Interview Survey to examine the relationship between having a first-degree relative with breast or colorectal cancer and receiving recommended screenings as well as following recommended guidelines regarding modifiable lifestyle factors. Among the findings, both men and women with family history of colorectal cancer were actually less likely than those without a family history to maintain a healthy weight and consume the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables. However, those with family history of cancer were more likely to follow guidelines for periodic mammogram or colonoscopy, although many of those with such a history did not receive screenings. The investigators could not assess the reasons behind these behaviors, which would seem to put some individuals at an additional increased risk of cancer, but they suggest that health-care providers counsel patients with family histories of cancer about what they can do to reduce their risk. —Karyn Hede, News Editor
