Limiting the amount of alcohol can reduce the incidence of cancers of the breast, liver, esophagus, larynx (voice box), pharynx (throat) and mouth. Experts recommend that women consume no more than one alcoholic drink per day, while men consume no more than two drinks.

Meanwhile, failing to slather on generous amounts of sunscreen before heading to the beach can leave the skin unprotected from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause skin cancer. This is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it occurs as one of two types. Non-melanoma is by far the most common type. This form rarely spreads beyond the skin.

Melanomas develop from melanocytes, a type of cell located in the top layer of the skin known as the epidermis. Melanocytes are responsible for producing the skin pigment known as melanin. Melanomas generally are considered to be more dangerous than non-melanomas and are more likely to spread. However, they typically are treatable when caught early. Fair-skinned people are at higher risk for developing melanomas than darker-skinned people.

Smoking, drinking too much and sunbathing without sunscreen are behaviors that all increase the risk of cancer. Diet, too, plays an important role in increasing or decreasing the risk of cancer.

The ACS estimates that one-third of cancer deaths can be linked directly to diet and exercise factors. Obesity is linked to some types of cancer, including breast cancer in postmenopausal women and cancer of the colon, endometrium, esophagus and kidneys. Eating the right foods also can help reduce cancer risk. People are especially urged to eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and to choose whole grains over refined grains. Eating less red meat and keeping the hand off the salt shaker may also help lower risk.