Cancer is a major public health concern globally, surpassing rates of cardiovascular disease in adults <75 years. It is a multifactorial disease with genetic, environmental and modifiable lifestyle risk factors. This course provides an overview of: a) the global and national burden of cancer; b) risk factors including genetic, early life risk factors and modifiable factors: tobacco, excess adiposity and diet (carbohydrates, processed foods, sugar-sweetened beverages, and alcohol); and c) cancer surveillance and policy as it relates to primary and secondary prevention of cancer. Students will discuss landmark studies in cancer epidemiology with an emphasis on population studies in the US and Europe. Students will also gain an understanding of cancer biology and important mechanisms that underlie carcinogenesis.