Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer in older adults. It causes 80 to 90 percent of cases. Chewing tobacco and snuff also raise cancer risk.

Quitting at any age leads to health benefits and lowers cancer risk. 

Good nutrition plays an important role in preventing cancer and tolerating treatment. Older adults with cancer often face poor nutrition, weight loss, and muscle loss, which can increase the risk of complications and poorer outcomes. No single food or supplement protects against cancer. But research suggests that a whole-food, plant-based diet may help reduce the risk of some cancers.

A diet rich in plant foods supports overall health. A good guideline is to fill two-thirds of your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Nutritious foods include:

• Legumes such as beans, soybeans, peas, lentils, and whole grains
• Berries; grapes and grape juice
• Tomatoes, especially tomato sauce, paste, or juice
• Cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy
• Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, romaine lettuce, mustard greens, collard greens, chicory, and Swiss chard
• Garlic, onions, and leeks
• Green tea
• Soy products such as tofu, soymilk, miso, tempeh, and soy nuts

Online resources can help people move toward a whole-foods, plant-based diet. One example: https://www.pcrm.org/good-nutrition/plant-based-diets

Research shows that people who exercise have lower risks of some types of cancer. Exercise also helps maintain physical strength, reduce fatigue, and better handle treatment. 

Most healthy adults benefit from moderate exercise for 30 to 60 minutes each day. Examples include walking, yoga, tai-chi, qi gong, dancing, or strength exercises adjusted to your ability.