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 it is a complex and multifaceted issue, a new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has shed light on the alarming fact that over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are preventable. The study, which analyzed data from around the globe, identified several modifiable risk factors that contribute to the development of cancer, including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity.
The WHO study, which was conducted by a team of international researchers, aimed to investigate the link between cancer and various lifestyle and environmental factors. The team analyzed data from over 100 countries, covering more than 90% of the global population. The results of the study were startling, revealing that a significant proportion of cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies.
Major causes of preventable cancer cases
The study identified six major causes of preventable cancer cases worldwide. These include:
- Tobacco use: Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable cancer cases, accounting for over 20% of all cancer deaths worldwide. The WHO estimates that tobacco use is responsible for over 1.5 million cancer deaths each year.
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption is another major risk factor for cancer, particularly for cancers of the liver, breast, and colon. The study found that alcohol consumption is responsible for over 10% of all cancer cases worldwide.
- Air pollution: Air pollution is a growing concern worldwide, and the study found that it is a significant risk factor for cancer, particularly lung cancer. The WHO estimates that air pollution is responsible for over 200,000 cancer deaths each year.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, can increase the risk of cancer. The study found that infections are responsible for over 5% of all cancer cases worldwide.
- High body mass index (BMI): Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for cancer, particularly for cancers of the breast, colon, and kidney. The study found that high BMI is responsible for over 5% of all cancer cases worldwide.
- Physical inactivity: Physical inactivity is another major risk factor for cancer, particularly for cancers of the colon and breast. The study found that physical inactivity is responsible for over 3% of all cancer cases worldwide.
Prevention through lifestyle changes
The good news is that many of these risk factors can be modified through lifestyle changes. The WHO recommends that individuals take the following steps to reduce their risk of cancer:
- Quit tobacco use
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Avoid air pollution
- Get vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B
- Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Engage in regular physical activity
Role of public health policies
In addition to individual lifestyle changes, the study highlights the importance of public health policies in preventing cancer. The WHO recommends that governments take the following steps to reduce the incidence of cancer:
- Implement tobacco control measures, such as taxes and bans on tobacco advertising
- Limit access to alcohol, particularly among young people
- Implement policies to reduce air pollution, such as cleaner energy sources and improved public transportation
- Increase access to vaccination programs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries
- Promote healthy lifestyles through public education campaigns and community-based programs
Conclusion
The WHO study provides a stark reminder of the importance of prevention in reducing the incidence of cancer worldwide. By identifying the major causes of preventable cancer cases, the study highlights the need for individuals, communities, and governments to take action to reduce the risk of cancer. Through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies, millions of cancer cases could be prevented each year. As the global community continues to grapple with the challenges of cancer, it is clear that prevention must be a top priority.
For more information on this study, please visit: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
About the Author
