The incidence of cancer and mortality rates is down according to the latest findings, highlighting progress made in cancer prevention, screening and early detection and improvements in treatment.

The results were just released in a new report published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

Dr. Jennifer Gillis of the Canadian Cancer Society says improvements have been seen in several common cancers.

The report highlights that lung and colorectal rates have been declining in both incidence and mortality. It provides insight into what contributes to that, and whether that progress can be transferred into more challenging areas.

Dr. Gillis says four in ten cancer cases can be prevented through healthy living and policies that protect the health of Canadians. That includes being sun safe, having a health body weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, moving more and sitting less.