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4 In 10 Cancer Cases Can Be Prevented By Addressing These 5 Risk Factors, Says WHO
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What Happened?
The WHO reports that nearly 4 in 10 cancer cases could be prevented by addressing five key risk factors. A global study highlights the importance of prevention.
Key points
- WHO's analysis indicates that 37% of new cancer cases in 2022, about 7.1 million cases, were linked to modifiable risk factors.
- Tobacco use is the largest preventable cause, contributing to 15% of new cancer cases.
- Infections account for approximately 10% of new cancer cases, with HPV and hepatitis being significant contributors.
- Alcohol consumption is linked to around 3% of new cancer cases.
- Excess body weight, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diets also contribute to preventable cancers.
- Air pollution and occupational exposures are additional significant risk factors.
Key insights
- Preventive measures could lead to millions of avoided cancer diagnoses worldwide.
- Public health initiatives focusing on vaccination and education may reduce cancer incidence.
- Improving environmental conditions could lower exposure to cancer-causing agents.
Why it matters
Addressing these risk factors could significantly reduce cancer cases globally.
Source
Times Now
