While you can never eliminate your risk of developing cancer, you can certainly reduce it significantly by complying with these recommendations. At least half of all cancer deaths could be preventable. The great news is that by quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, and exercising regularly, you can also reduce your risk of several other serious complications, such as heart attack, stroke and diabetes. So take your health into your own hands. You have the ability to lower your cancer riskâby a lot.