According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), as of 2009 there were over 1.4 million known cases of cancer in the United States. The disease is the second leading cause of death behind heart disease. While the risk of getting cancer is high, the foods you eat can protect you. In fact, the ACS goes so far as to say that one-third of all cancer deaths in the United States could be prevented if Americans ate a more balanced diet rich in plant foods, which is also a diet that helps maintain a healthy weight.