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 part of life, 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 analyzed data from around the world, identified tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity as major causes of cancer. These risk factors are not only preventable, but they are also interconnected, meaning that addressing one risk factor can have a positive impact on others. For example, quitting smoking not only reduces the risk of lung cancer, but also reduces the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
The role of tobacco in cancer cases
Tobacco is one of the leading causes of cancer worldwide, with smoking responsible for over 20% of cancer deaths. The WHO study found that tobacco use is responsible for over 15% of all cancer cases, with lung cancer being the most common type of cancer caused by tobacco. However, tobacco use also increases the risk of other types of cancer, including cancers of the mouth, throat, and bladder.
The good news is that quitting smoking can greatly reduce the risk of cancer. According to the WHO, quitting smoking can reduce the risk of lung cancer by up to 50% within 10 years of quitting. Additionally, quitting smoking can also reduce the risk of other health problems, including heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The impact of alcohol on cancer risk
Alcohol is another major risk factor for cancer, with the WHO study finding that alcohol consumption is responsible for over 5% of all cancer cases. The risk of cancer from alcohol is highest for cancers of the liver, breast, and colon, with heavy drinking increasing the risk of these cancers by up to 50%. However, even moderate drinking can increase the risk of cancer, with the WHO recommending that adults limit their alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
The role of air pollution in cancer cases
Air pollution is a growing concern worldwide, with the WHO study finding that air pollution is responsible for over 3% of all cancer cases. The main culprit is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is emitted by vehicles, industrial plants, and other sources. Exposure to PM2.5 has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other health problems, including heart disease and respiratory disease.
Infections and cancer risk
Infections are also a major risk factor for cancer, with the WHO study finding that infections are responsible for over 2% of all cancer cases. The main culprits are human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C, and Helicobacter pylori, which can cause cancers of the cervix, liver, and stomach, respectively. However, vaccines are available to prevent these infections, and the WHO recommends that all children be vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B.
The impact of high BMI and physical inactivity on cancer risk
High body mass index (BMI) and physical inactivity are also major risk factors for cancer, with the WHO study finding that these factors are responsible for over 5% of all cancer cases. The main culprit is obesity, which increases the risk of cancers of the breast, colon, and kidney, among others. However, regular physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer, with the WHO recommending that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Prevention is key
The WHO study highlights the importance of prevention in reducing the risk of cancer. 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. Additionally, vaccination and stronger public health policies can also play a key role in reducing the risk of cancer.
Conclusion
The WHO study is a wake-up call for individuals and governments around the world. By highlighting the link between modifiable risk factors and cancer, the study shows that millions of cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies. While cancer is a complex and multifaceted disease, the study provides hope that by working together, we can reduce the burden of cancer worldwide.
For more information on this study, please visit: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
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