Over 37% of cancer cases worldwide are preventable: WHO study
A new analysis 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. The study, which was conducted by a team of researchers at the WHO, has identified tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, infections, high body mass index (BMI), and physical inactivity as the major causes of preventable cancer cases. The findings of the study have significant implications for public health policies and individual lifestyle choices, highlighting the potential to prevent millions of cancer cases through simple yet effective measures.
The study, which was based on data from over 100 countries, found that the majority of preventable cancer cases were linked to tobacco use, which accounted for around 22% of all cancer cases. Alcohol consumption was the second leading cause of preventable cancer cases, accounting for around 6% of all cases. Air pollution, which is a growing concern in many parts of the world, was found to be responsible for around 4% of all cancer cases. Infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, were also identified as significant risk factors, accounting for around 3% of all cancer cases.
The study also highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity. High body mass index (BMI) was found to be a significant risk factor for certain types of cancer, including breast, colon, and kidney cancer. Physical inactivity was also identified as a major risk factor, with around 2% of all cancer cases linked to a lack of physical activity.
The findings of the study have significant implications for public health policies and individual lifestyle choices. The researchers emphasized that millions of cancer cases could be prevented through simple yet effective measures, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and increasing physical activity. Vaccination against certain infections, such as HPV and hepatitis B, was also identified as a key strategy for preventing cancer cases.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Maria Neira, emphasized the importance of addressing the modifiable risk factors identified in the study. “The burden of cancer can be significantly reduced by addressing the major risk factors,” she said. “We need to take a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention, including strengthening public health policies, promoting healthy lifestyles, and increasing access to vaccination and screening programs.”
The study’s findings also highlighted the need for greater awareness and education about the risks associated with certain lifestyle choices. Many people are unaware of the link between certain risk factors, such as tobacco use and air pollution, and the development of cancer. Increasing awareness and education about these risks can play a critical role in preventing cancer cases and reducing the burden of the disease.
In addition to individual lifestyle choices, the study also emphasized the importance of stronger public health policies in preventing cancer cases. The researchers called for greater investment in cancer prevention programs, including vaccination and screening programs, as well as policies to reduce exposure to known risk factors, such as tobacco and air pollution.
The study’s findings have significant implications for healthcare systems and policymakers around the world. By addressing the modifiable risk factors identified in the study, healthcare systems can reduce the burden of cancer and improve health outcomes for millions of people. The study’s findings also highlight the need for greater collaboration and coordination between healthcare systems, governments, and other stakeholders to address the global cancer burden.
In conclusion, the WHO study provides a stark reminder of the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors in preventing cancer cases. By making simple yet effective lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and increasing physical activity, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer. The study’s findings also highlight the need for stronger public health policies and greater investment in cancer prevention programs. As the global cancer burden continues to grow, it is essential that we take a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention, including addressing the major risk factors identified in this study.
Source:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-026-04219-7
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