In Cancer Prevention Month, AICR Launches Free Program for Weight Loss, Better Health, and Cancer Prevention

Clear research now shows that overweight and obesity increase the risk of 11 cancers. For individuals working to lose weight, the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is launching a weight-loss program to help people develop lifelong health habits.

Beginning February 27, AICR's New American Plate (NAP) Challenge is an online free 12-week program that turns AICR's research-based recommendations into weekly, practical objectives.

Participants receive a series of 12 weekly challenges, each focused on a specific and achievable lifestyle goal. Challenges include interactive tools and resources. Challengers become part of a community where they can exchange tips and support with one another and expert dietitians.

Developed and run by dietitians specializing in cancer prevention, the NAP Challenge is based around AICR's 10 recommendations for cancer prevention. Being active daily, eating a variety of plant foods, and cutting processed meats are key steps Challenge participants build towards.

"We know it's not easy to change habits and lose weight," said Alice Bender, MS, RDN, head of AICR Nutrition Programs. "That's why we developed The New American Plate Challenge to have doable, actionable steps every week. It puts AICR's research on cancer prevention onto your plate and into your everyday activity, giving you a plan that you can fit into your life to lose weight and feel better."

Our Vision: We want to live in a world where no one develops a preventable cancer.

Our Mission: The American Institute for Cancer Research champions the latest and most authoritative scientific research from around the world on cancer prevention and survival through diet, weight and physical activity, so that we can help people make informed lifestyle choices to reduce their cancer risk.

We have contributed over $105 million for innovative research conducted at universities, hospitals and research centers across the country. Find evidence-based tools and information for lowering cancer risk, including AICR's Recommendation for Cancer Prevention, at www.aicr.org.

Individuals can register for AICR's New American Plate Challenge at http://napchallenge.org/registration/.