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 condition, a new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that a significant proportion of cancer cases are linked to modifiable risk factors. According to the study, over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are preventable, highlighting the importance of lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies in reducing the burden of cancer.
The WHO analysis, which was based on data from 2019, identified several major causes of preventable cancer cases. Tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity were all found to be significant risk factors for cancer. These factors are all modifiable, meaning that they can be changed or avoided through individual or collective action. By making informed choices about our lifestyle and environment, we can significantly reduce our risk of developing cancer.
Tobacco is one of the most significant risk factors for cancer, accounting for over 20% of cancer cases worldwide. The WHO has long recognized the dangers of tobacco use, and has called for governments to implement policies to reduce tobacco consumption. This includes increasing taxes on tobacco products, banning tobacco advertising, and providing support for smokers who want to quit. By reducing tobacco use, we can significantly reduce the number of cancer cases caused by this preventable risk factor.
Alcohol is another major cause of cancer, with excessive drinking linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including liver, breast, and colon cancer. The WHO recommends that adults limit their alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. By reducing our alcohol intake, we can lower our risk of developing these types of cancer.
Air pollution is also a significant risk factor for cancer, particularly in urban areas where pollution levels are often highest. The WHO recommends that governments implement policies to reduce air pollution, such as increasing the use of clean energy, improving public transportation, and promoting walking and cycling. By reducing our exposure to air pollution, we can lower our risk of developing cancer.
Infections are also a major cause of cancer, with certain viruses and bacteria linked to an increased risk of cancer. For example, the human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause of cervical cancer, while the hepatitis B virus is a major cause of liver cancer. The WHO recommends that individuals get vaccinated against these infections, and that governments implement policies to increase vaccination rates. By reducing the spread of these infections, we can significantly reduce the number of cancer cases caused by them.
High body mass index (BMI) is also a significant risk factor for cancer, with excess weight linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and kidney cancer. The WHO recommends that adults maintain a healthy weight through a combination of a healthy diet and regular physical activity. By reducing our BMI, we can lower our risk of developing these types of cancer.
Physical inactivity is also a major cause of cancer, with a lack of physical activity linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including colon, breast, and uterine cancer. The WHO recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. By increasing our physical activity levels, we can lower our risk of developing these types of cancer.
The WHO study highlights the importance of lifestyle changes, vaccination, and stronger public health policies in reducing the burden of cancer. By making informed choices about our lifestyle and environment, we can significantly reduce our risk of developing cancer. Governments and health organizations also have a critical role to play in promoting cancer prevention, through policies and programs that support healthy behaviors and reduce exposure to cancer-causing agents.
In conclusion, the WHO study is a timely reminder of the importance of cancer prevention. By understanding the causes of cancer and taking action to reduce our risk, we can significantly reduce the burden of this devastating disease. Whether through lifestyle changes, vaccination, or stronger public health policies, we all have a role to play in preventing cancer. By working together, we can create a healthier, cancer-free world for future generations.
News Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
About the Author
