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 linked to modifiable risk factors. This means that millions of cancer cases could be prevented through simple lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies.
The WHO analysis, which was recently published, identified tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity as the major causes of preventable cancer cases. These risk factors are not only common but also interconnected, making it essential to address them through a comprehensive approach.
Tobacco: A leading cause of preventable cancer
Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for cancer, accounting for over 20% of cancer deaths worldwide. The WHO study found that tobacco use is responsible for a substantial proportion of lung, throat, and mouth cancers. The good news is that quitting tobacco can significantly reduce the risk of developing these cancers. Governments and health organizations can play a crucial role in reducing tobacco use by implementing policies such as taxation, public education campaigns, and smoking bans.
Alcohol: A major contributor to cancer risk
Alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor for cancer, particularly breast, liver, and colon cancers. The WHO study found that alcohol use is responsible for over 10% of cancer cases worldwide. While moderate alcohol consumption is often considered safe, excessive drinking can have devastating consequences. Reducing alcohol consumption through public health campaigns, taxation, and responsible drinking initiatives can help mitigate the risk of cancer.
Air pollution: A growing concern
Air pollution is a growing concern worldwide, with the WHO estimating that over 90% of the global population breathes polluted air. The study found that air pollution is responsible for over 5% of cancer cases worldwide, particularly lung cancer. Reducing air pollution through policies such as emission controls, clean energy initiatives, and urban planning can help mitigate the risk of cancer.
Infections: A preventable cause of cancer
Certain infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, can increase the risk of cancer. The WHO study found that infections are responsible for over 5% of cancer cases worldwide, particularly cervical and liver cancers. Vaccination is a highly effective way to prevent these infections and reduce the risk of cancer. Governments and health organizations can play a crucial role in promoting vaccination and increasing access to vaccines, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
High BMI and physical inactivity: A growing concern
High body mass index (BMI) and physical inactivity are significant risk factors for cancer, particularly breast, colon, and kidney cancers. The WHO study found that high BMI and physical inactivity are responsible for over 10% of cancer cases worldwide. Promoting healthy lifestyles through public health campaigns, education, and urban planning can help mitigate the risk of cancer.
Prevention is key
The WHO study highlights the importance of prevention in reducing the burden of cancer worldwide. By addressing modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, air pollution, infections, high BMI, and physical inactivity, millions of cancer cases could be prevented. Governments, health organizations, and individuals must work together to promote healthy lifestyles, increase access to vaccination and screening, and implement stronger public health policies.
Conclusion
The WHO study is a wake-up call for governments, health organizations, and individuals to take action against cancer. By addressing modifiable risk factors and promoting healthy lifestyles, we can reduce the burden of cancer worldwide. It is essential to recognize that cancer is not just a health issue but also a social and economic issue that requires a comprehensive approach. As the WHO study highlights, over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are preventable, and it is our collective responsibility to take action and make a difference.
Source:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
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