A substantial percentage of cancers diagnosed in the United States have been attributed to lifestyle factors—such as tobacco use, excess body weight, diet, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and carcinogenic infections—as well as environmental exposures. Leveraging our understanding of all of these potentially modifiable risk factors, from lifestyle and from the environment, to prevent cancer presents a significant opportunity for the National Cancer Program.
In June 2026, the Panel convened experts to present evidence linking these lifestyle and environmental factors to cancer and to discuss potential approaches to reduce cancer risk. Based on the discussions at June’s meeting, the Panel decided to further explore opportunities to address cancer risk linked to obesity and dietary patterns.
In fall 2026, the Panel will host a series of public meetings and convene stakeholders to discuss opportunities to reduce cancer risk through interventions and policy focused on obesity, diet, and nutrition.
More information can be found on the meeting webpages:
- Meeting 1, Modifiable Risk Factors for Cancer: Opportunities for Prevention, was held June 8 and June 9 in person.
- Meeting 2, Opportunities to Reduce Obesity-Related Cancer Risk: GLP-1 Medications, will be held virtually on October 15.
- Meeting 3, Opportunities to Reduce Cancer Risk: Diet, Obesity, and Inflammation, will be held virtually on October 26.
- Meeting 4, Opportunities to Reduce Cancer Risk Through Nutrition: Roles for Industry and Government, will be held virtually on November 5.
The presentations and moderated discussions at these meetings will inform the Panel's recommendations, which will be delivered in a report to the President of the United States after the conclusion of the meeting series.
The President’s Cancer Panel meeting series is open to the public. Registration information can be found on the meeting websites linked above.