According to a recent study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is part of the World Health Organization (WHO), infections caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites led to approximately 2.3 million new cancer cases worldwide in 2024. This accounts for about 12% of all cancer cases registered globally that year. The study highlights significant geographical and economic disparities in the distribution of these infection-related cancer cases.
The study found that low- and middle-income countries bore the brunt of infection-related cancer cases, accounting for nearly three-quarters of the global burden. East Asia recorded the highest number of cases, with 990,000 new cases (42% of the global total), primarily due to the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria and hepatitis B virus. These factors are significant contributors to the region's cancer burden.
Sub-Saharan Africa reported the highest proportion of cancer cases attributed to infections, with a quarter of all cancer cases in the region linked to infections, particularly the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV was responsible for all cases of cervical cancer, totaling 750,000 new cases. Helicobacter pylori bacteria were the leading cause of infection-related cancer, accounting for 760,000 new cases, followed by HPV and hepatitis B virus.
The study emphasizes that controlling infections is crucial to reducing the global cancer burden. Researchers stress the need for investment in preventive measures, including the development of new vaccines. For instance, a vaccine against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes six types of cancer but currently has no licensed vaccine, is a priority area for research and development.
The findings underscore the importance of addressing infection-related cancer in low- and middle-income countries, where access to preventive measures and healthcare may be limited. By focusing on infection control and vaccine development, it may be possible to significantly reduce the incidence of certain types of cancer globally.
The research also highlights the role of specific infectious agents in causing cancer. For example, Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which cause stomach ulcers, are also a major risk factor for stomach cancer. Similarly, hepatitis B and C viruses are linked to liver cancer, while human papillomavirus (HPV) is a primary cause of cervical cancer.
Overall, the study's results reinforce the need for comprehensive strategies to combat cancer, including prevention, early detection, and treatment. By addressing the root causes of infection-related cancer, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, it is possible to make significant progress in reducing the global cancer burden and improving public health outcomes.
Key points
- Infections caused 2.3 million new cancer cases worldwide in 2024.
- Low- and middle-income countries accounted for nearly three-quarters of infection-related cancer cases.
- Controlling infections and developing new vaccines are crucial to reducing the global cancer burden.
