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 WHO study, which analyzed data from around the world, identified several major causes of cancer that can be prevented or reduced. These include tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity. By addressing these risk factors, individuals and governments can significantly reduce the burden of cancer on communities and healthcare systems.
Tobacco: a leading cause of cancer
Tobacco is one of the most significant risk factors for cancer, responsible for over 20% of cancer deaths worldwide. Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause a range of cancers, including lung, throat, and mouth cancer. The WHO study found that tobacco use is the leading cause of cancer in many countries, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where tobacco control laws and regulations are often weak.
To reduce the risk of cancer from tobacco, the WHO recommends that governments implement comprehensive tobacco control policies, including bans on tobacco advertising, increases in tobacco taxes, and provision of smoking cessation services. Individuals can also reduce their risk of cancer by quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco products altogether.
Alcohol: a major risk factor for cancer
Alcohol is another major risk factor for cancer, responsible for around 5% of cancer cases worldwide. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colon cancer. The WHO study found that alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for cancer in many countries, particularly in Europe and the Americas.
To reduce the risk of cancer from alcohol, the WHO recommends that individuals limit their alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. Governments can also reduce the risk of cancer from alcohol by implementing policies to reduce alcohol consumption, such as increasing taxes on alcohol and restricting alcohol advertising.
Air pollution: a growing concern
Air pollution is a growing concern as a risk factor for cancer, particularly in urban areas. The WHO study found that air pollution is responsible for around 3% of cancer cases worldwide, with the majority of these cases occurring in Asia. Air pollution can cause a range of cancers, including lung and throat cancer.
To reduce the risk of cancer from air pollution, the WHO recommends that governments implement policies to reduce air pollution, such as increasing the use of clean energy sources and improving waste management. Individuals can also reduce their risk of cancer from air pollution by avoiding heavily polluted areas and using air purifiers in their homes.
Infections: a significant risk factor for cancer
Infections are a significant risk factor for cancer, responsible for around 10% of cancer cases worldwide. Certain infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, can increase the risk of cancer. The WHO study found that infections are a major risk factor for cancer in many low- and middle-income countries, where access to vaccination and healthcare services is often limited.
To reduce the risk of cancer from infections, the WHO recommends that individuals get vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B. Governments can also reduce the risk of cancer from infections by increasing access to vaccination and healthcare services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
High body mass index (BMI) and physical inactivity: risk factors for cancer
High body mass index (BMI) and physical inactivity are also significant risk factors for cancer. The WHO study found that high BMI and physical inactivity are responsible for around 5% of cancer cases worldwide. Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and kidney cancer.
To reduce the risk of cancer from high BMI and physical inactivity, the WHO recommends that individuals maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Governments can also reduce the risk of cancer from high BMI and physical inactivity by implementing policies to promote healthy lifestyles, such as increasing access to healthy food and physical activity opportunities.
Conclusion
The WHO study highlights the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors to reduce the burden of cancer worldwide. By implementing policies to reduce tobacco use, alcohol consumption, air pollution, and infections, and promoting healthy lifestyles, governments and individuals can significantly reduce the risk of cancer. Millions of cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of cancer, it is essential that we take a proactive approach to reducing the risk of cancer. By working together, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
Source:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
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