A World Health Organization analysis published in The Lancet Oncology estimates that about 12% of global cancer cases in 2024 were infection-related. This translates to approximately 2.3 million new cases. The study examined the frequency of different cancers and the contribution of infectious agents to their development. The findings highlight the significant role infections play in cancer development, particularly in low-income countries.
The analysis identified five pathogens responsible for the majority of infection-related cancers. These include Helicobacter pylori (4%), human papillomavirus (HPV, 4%), hepatitis B (2%), Epstein-Barr virus (1%), and hepatitis C (under 1%). These infections are linked to more than 20 cancer types, including stomach, liver, blood, and cervical cancers. The study's results emphasize the need for targeted interventions to reduce the burden of infection-driven cancers.
Infection-related cancers are disproportionately concentrated in low- and middle-income countries, accounting for about three-quarters of such cases. This disparity highlights the need for increased access to preventive measures and healthcare in these regions. The study's authors stress that the primary aim of the report is to highlight opportunities for cancer reduction through infection control.
Researchers cite preventive measures such as vaccination, condom use, and screening or treatment for hepatitis and Helicobacter pylori as key strategies to lower infection-driven cancer burdens. For example, Australia's HPV vaccination program has been successful in reducing HPV infections by 90% among eligible adolescents since 2007.
The study's findings have significant implications for cancer prevention and control. By targeting infectious agents, healthcare systems can potentially reduce the incidence of certain types of cancer. This approach is particularly important in low-income countries, where access to healthcare and cancer treatment may be limited.
The WHO analysis also highlights the importance of data quality in understanding cancer trends. The study's authors note that variations in data quality across previous studies make it challenging to compare trends over time. However, the current study provides a comprehensive snapshot of the relationship between infections and cancer.
The study's results are expected to inform cancer control policies and strategies globally. By emphasizing the role of infections in cancer development, the WHO aims to promote increased investment in infection control and cancer prevention measures. This approach has the potential to reduce the global cancer burden and improve health outcomes, particularly in low-income countries.
Key points
- About 12% of global cancer cases in 2024 were caused by infections.
- Infection-related cancers are disproportionately concentrated in low- and middle-income countries.
- Preventive measures such as vaccination and screening can help reduce the burden of infection-driven cancers.
