Over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are preventable: WHO study
A recent analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO) has shed new light on the preventability of cancer cases worldwide. The study, which was conducted by a team of researchers at the WHO, has revealed that over 37% of cancer cases globally are linked to modifiable risk factors. This groundbreaking finding suggests that millions of cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies.
The study, which was published in a prestigious scientific journal, identified several major causes of cancer that can be prevented or reduced through modifications in lifestyle and environmental factors. These include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity. According to the researchers, these modifiable risk factors are responsible for a significant proportion of cancer cases worldwide, and addressing them could lead to a substantial reduction in the global cancer burden.
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 cases worldwide. The WHO study found that tobacco use is responsible for a wide range of cancers, including lung, throat, mouth, and bladder cancer. The good news is that tobacco use is a modifiable risk factor, and quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco products altogether can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer. Governments and public health organizations can also play a crucial role in reducing tobacco use by implementing policies such as taxation, bans on advertising, and public education campaigns.
Alcohol consumption: a major risk factor for cancer
Alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor for cancer, accounting for around 5% of cancer cases worldwide. The WHO study found that alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer. While moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, excessive drinking can have serious negative consequences, including an increased risk of cancer. Reducing alcohol consumption or avoiding it altogether can help to lower the risk of cancer, and public health policies such as taxation and education campaigns can also help to reduce alcohol-related harm.
Air pollution: a growing concern for cancer risk
Air pollution is a growing concern for cancer risk, particularly in urban areas where air quality is often poor. The WHO study found that exposure to air pollution is linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Reducing air pollution through policies such as emission controls, cleaner energy sources, and increased use of public transport can help to lower the risk of cancer. Individuals can also take steps to reduce their exposure to air pollution, such as wearing masks, avoiding heavily polluted areas, and using air purifiers in their homes.
Infections: a significant risk factor for cancer
Certain infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, are significant risk factors for cancer. The WHO study found that these infections are responsible for around 10% of cancer cases worldwide, and that vaccination and screening programs can help to reduce the risk of cancer. For example, the HPV vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in preventing cervical cancer, and hepatitis B vaccination can help to prevent liver cancer. Increasing access to vaccination and screening programs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, can help to reduce the global cancer burden.
High body mass index (BMI) and physical inactivity: linked to cancer risk
High BMI and physical inactivity are also linked to an increased risk of cancer. The WHO study found that being overweight or obese increases the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and kidney cancer. Regular physical activity, on the other hand, can help to reduce the risk of cancer, as well as other chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Encouraging physical activity and healthy eating habits through public health policies and education campaigns can help to reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.
Conclusion
The WHO study’s finding that over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are preventable is a significant one, and highlights the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, air pollution, infections, high BMI, and physical inactivity. By making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and increasing physical activity, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer. Governments and public health organizations can also play a crucial role in reducing the global cancer burden by implementing policies such as taxation, bans on advertising, and public education campaigns. By working together, we can help to prevent millions of cancer cases worldwide and reduce the suffering and economic burden associated with this devastating disease.
Source:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
About the Author
