P : What does science say about the relationship between our cancer risk and our lifestyle vs . cancer risk and our genes ? h : Although there is some genetic basis for being at risk for cancer , the major risk is our lifestyle . Forty percent of all cancers are preventable with the right lifestyle . Risk for certain cancers can be reduced by 50 percent with exercise five days a week for 30 minutes and can be reduced 35 percent with proper nutrition . In addition , when the risk increased from one in every 40 people in 1900 to one in every two people in 2018 and you add current information on carcinogens in our food , personal care products , air , water , chemicals , metals , the sun ( ultraviolet rays ) and almost every aspect of life , there is no doubt that lifestyle makes the difference between having or not having cancer .

P : Why did you start the Carl O . helvie holistic Cancer Foundation ? h : I retired from academia at age 69 , wrote a couple more books , and produced and hosted a radio show for 10 years , but I was still bored ! I wanted to do more to help others . As a cancer survivor and an early believer in the value of a holistic approach , the foundation seemed like a good way to reach people with information on natural , holistic prevention and treatment for cancer . Oncologists often tell patients there are three types of treatment — chemo , radiation and surgery but omit the alternative treatments that are usually less invasive and less costly and often more effective . It is up to the patient to ultimately choose their treatment , but I am passionate about their having all the information before making that choice and that includes alternative treatments .

P : What has been the response to your findings on the holistic approach to beating cancer ? h : Because of my educational background , my longevity of cancer

survival , and the fact that I am not selling anything but offering my services to all for free ( I am consulted by many cancer patients who hear about me and my foundation ) most accept the concept of holism in cancer treatment . Even many patients who choose traditional treatment ask to be on my prayer list or to implement some of the mental and spiritual interventions .

P : What do you hope readers gain from your new book , Reducing Your Cancer Risk ( a holistic approach )? h : I hope readers gain an appreciation for the role they play in their own health and illness by the lifestyle they choose . I hope readers are willing to make gradual changes to a better lifestyle and make their risk of cancer less likely . I would like to see cancer and the related unnecessary suffering eliminated in my lifetime and it takes all of us to make that happen . n

Helvie ’ s five simple truths to reducing your cancer risk and leading a Holistic life

Pray daily and strengthen your faith .

Serve your fellow man the best you can in whatever you do in life ,

Stay positive and optimistic and be grateful for what you have .

June 2018 ■ PULSE 65