WHO: Nearly four in ten cancer cases are preventable - Nearly 40% of Global Cancers Could Be Prevented, New Study Finds

A new global study has revealed that nearly four in ten cancer cases could be prevented. The research is the first to quantify how avoidable risk factors contribute to cancer worldwide. It highlights that millions of diagnoses each year stem from causes like smoking, infections, and pollution.

The study found that 7.1 million cancer cases in 2022 were linked to preventable causes. Tobacco use was the leading risk factor, responsible for 15% of all new cases. Alcohol consumption followed, accounting for 3% of diagnoses.

Cancer-causing infections, such as those linked to cervical and stomach cancers, made up 10% of cases. Other major factors included obesity, lack of exercise, UV radiation, and asbestos exposure. Nearly half of the preventable cases involved lung, stomach, or cervical cancer.

Researchers are now urging governments to take stronger action. They recommend tighter controls on tobacco and alcohol sales worldwide. The study also calls for wider vaccination programmes against cancer-related infections and better air quality measures.

The findings suggest that stricter public health policies could significantly reduce cancer rates. With nearly 40% of global cases tied to preventable causes, the study underlines the need for targeted interventions. Improved regulations and awareness could help lower the burden of avoidable cancers in the future.