Over 37% of Cancer Cases Worldwide are Preventable: WHO Study
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, accounting for millions of lives lost every year. The disease is often associated with genetic mutations, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. While some risk factors are unavoidable, a recent study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that a significant percentage of cancer cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies.
According to the WHO analysis, over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are linked to modifiable risk factors. The study highlighted tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity as major causes of cancer. These findings suggest that millions of cancer cases could be prevented by addressing these risk factors and promoting healthy lifestyle choices.
Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of cancer worldwide, accounting for over 20% of cancer deaths. The WHO study found that tobacco use is responsible for a significant proportion of lung, mouth, and throat cancers. Quitting tobacco can significantly reduce the risk of developing these types of cancer, and public health policies aimed at reducing tobacco use can have a major impact on cancer prevention.
Alcohol consumption is another major risk factor for cancer, particularly for liver, breast, and colon cancers. The WHO study found that reducing alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk of developing these types of cancer. The organization recommends limiting alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
Air pollution is also a significant risk factor for cancer, particularly for lung cancer. The WHO study found that exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of developing lung cancer, and that reducing air pollution can significantly reduce this risk. Governments and individuals can take steps to reduce air pollution by promoting the use of clean energy, increasing energy efficiency, and reducing waste.
Infections are also a major risk factor for cancer, particularly for cervical, liver, and stomach cancers. The WHO study found that vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B can significantly reduce the risk of developing these types of cancer. Additionally, promoting safe sex practices and reducing the risk of infection can also help prevent cancer.
High body mass index (BMI) is also a significant risk factor for cancer, particularly for breast, colon, and kidney cancers. The WHO study found that maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of developing these types of cancer.
Physical inactivity is also a major risk factor for cancer, particularly for breast and colon cancers. The WHO study found that regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of developing these types of cancer, and that promoting physical activity through public health policies can have a major impact on cancer prevention.
The WHO study highlights the importance of addressing these modifiable risk factors to prevent cancer. By promoting healthy lifestyle choices, vaccination, and stronger public health policies, millions of cancer cases can be prevented. Governments, individuals, and healthcare providers must work together to address these risk factors and promote cancer prevention.
The study’s findings have significant implications for public health policy and practice. Governments can implement policies aimed at reducing tobacco use, promoting physical activity, and increasing access to vaccination and screening programs. Individuals can make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing cancer, such as quitting tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight.
In conclusion, the WHO study highlights the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors to prevent cancer. By promoting healthy lifestyle choices, vaccination, and stronger public health policies, millions of cancer cases can be prevented. It is essential that governments, individuals, and healthcare providers work together to address these risk factors and promote cancer prevention.
Source:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
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