It was not until the 20th century that official medicine recognized that an inadequate diet is a decisive factor in the onset of various types of cancer. In 1995, The European Cancer Socialist’s Commission published the European code against cancer which later became populary known as the European Decalogue Against cancer. Here is summarized version. l Do not smoke. Smokers, stop as quickly as possible and do not smoke in the presence of others. If you don’t smoke, do not try it. l If you drink alcohol, whether beer, wine or spirits, moderate your consumption. l Increase your daily intake of vegetables and fresh fruits. Eat Cereals with high fibre content frequently. l Avoid becoming overweight, increase physical activity and limit intake of fatty foods. l Avoid excessive exposure to the sun and avoid sunburn especially in children. l Apply strictly regulations aimed at preventing any exposure to known cancer causing substance. Follow all health and safety instructions on substances which cause cancer. l See your doctor if you notice a lump, a sore which does not heal (including in the mouth), a mole which changes in shape, size or color or any abnormal bleeding. l See your doctor if you have problems such as persistent cough, persistent soarness, a change on bowel or urinary habits or unexplained weight loss. l For women: have a cervical smear regularly. Participate in organized screening programs for cervical cancer. l check your breasts regularly. Participate in mammagraphic screening programs if you are over 50. This commission predicted that in five years, if these European 10 commandments were respected, there would be a significant reduction in deaths due to cancer in the European union, which would come close to 15%. It should be noted that at least three of these are related to dietary habits
