A report by the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund has warned that excess weight increases a person's risk for a number of cancers.

   There is a slew of other lifestyle risk factors as well. Exercising for at least half an hour a day is vital. Men should limit their alcohol intake to two drinks a day and women one. Consumption of red meat shouldn't go above 500 gm a week and can be replaced by poultry, fish and eggs.

   Taken together, such measures can cut cancer risks by as much as 40 per cent. This must be taken as a serious warning, especially by urban Indians. Studies by Indian doctors show that Indians are prone to obesity because they have more fat than lean body mass.

   Unregulated lifestyles led by people in urban areas can worsen this tendency. The Nutrition Foundation of India estimates that 50 per cent of women and 32 per cent men are obese in urban India.

   High tension levels endemic to city life play havoc with diet and exercise patterns. Stressed individuals are prone to indulging in unhealthy consumption habits like alcoholism and overeating. A large proportion of their eating is devoted to junk food.

   A recent nationwide survey by AC Nielsen indicates that mothers and children in big cities blithely munch on junk food just before dinner time.

   People do not exercise unless after they have fallen ill and are advised to hit the gym by doctors.

   Awareness about the link between lifestyle and disease is abysmal in India. It should be recognised as a public health problem in urban areas. Public authorities must play an important role in changing people's perception.

   Schools must inculcate in their students a passion for healthy living. Businesses need to encourage their employees to indulge in stress-relieving activities like yoga. High priority must be accorded to de-stressing and improving urban lifestyles if we are to be serious about ensuring a healthy future for our children and grandchildren. 

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