Over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are preventable: WHO study
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with millions of people diagnosed with the disease every year. While cancer is often thought of as an inevitable and uncontrollable fate, a new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are linked to modifiable risk factors. This means that millions of cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies.
The study, which was recently published, analyzed data from around the world to identify the major causes of cancer. The researchers found that tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity are the major modifiable risk factors for cancer. These factors are responsible for a significant proportion of cancer cases, and addressing them could have a major impact on reducing the global cancer burden.
Tobacco is one of the leading causes of cancer, and is responsible for over 20% of cancer deaths worldwide. The WHO has long recognized the dangers of tobacco, and has implemented a range of policies to reduce its use. These include increasing taxes on tobacco products, banning tobacco advertising, and providing support for people trying to quit. However, despite these efforts, tobacco use remains widespread, and the WHO estimates that over 1.3 billion people worldwide still smoke.
Alcohol is another major risk factor for cancer, and is responsible for around 5% of cancer cases worldwide. The WHO recommends that adults limit their alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day, and that pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions avoid alcohol altogether. However, many people exceed these recommended limits, and alcohol-related cancer cases are a significant public health concern.
Air pollution is also a major risk factor for cancer, particularly in urban areas. The WHO estimates that over 90% of the world’s population breathes polluted air, and that air pollution is responsible for around 3% of cancer cases worldwide. The main sources of air pollution are fossil fuels, industrial processes, and vehicle emissions. Reducing air pollution will require a range of policies, including increasing the use of renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and promoting cleaner transportation.
Infections are another significant risk factor for cancer, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The WHO estimates that around 15% of cancer cases worldwide are caused by infections, including human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C, and Helicobacter pylori. Vaccination is a highly effective way to prevent these infections, and the WHO recommends that all children be vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B. Additionally, the WHO recommends that people with hepatitis C be treated with antiviral medications to reduce their risk of developing liver cancer.
High body mass index (BMI) is also a significant risk factor for cancer, particularly for breast, colon, and kidney cancer. The WHO recommends that adults maintain a healthy weight through a combination of a balanced diet and regular physical activity. However, many people are overweight or obese, and this is a significant public health concern.
Physical inactivity is also a major risk factor for cancer, particularly for breast and colon cancer. The WHO recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. However, many people lead sedentary lifestyles, and this is a significant public health concern.
The good news is that many of these risk factors can be addressed through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies. The WHO recommends that governments implement a range of policies to reduce the cancer burden, including increasing taxes on tobacco and alcohol, improving access to vaccination and screening programs, and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Individuals can also take steps to reduce their risk of developing cancer. This includes quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity. Additionally, individuals can get vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B, and get screened for cancer regularly.
In conclusion, the new WHO study highlights the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors to prevent cancer. By making lifestyle changes, getting vaccinated, and supporting stronger public health policies, we can reduce the global cancer burden and save millions of lives. It is a call to action for governments, healthcare professionals, and individuals to work together to prevent cancer and promote a healthier world.
Source:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
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