Preventable Cancer: Unveiling the Modifiable Risks

In 2022, nearly 40% of global cancer cases were preventable, linked to modifiable factors like smoking and infections. An analysis of 18.7 million cases identified these risks primarily in lung, stomach, and cervical cancers. The study emphasizes prevention strategies to reduce the cancer burden globally.

Nearly two out of every five cancer cases worldwide in 2022 were found to be preventable, according to a recent analysis. Researchers highlighted that modifiable risk factors — including smoking and alcohol consumption — were responsible, alongside infections, for this alarming statistic.

Conducted by experts at the International Agency for Research on Cancer and other organizations, the study involved an extensive analysis of 18.7 million cancer cases across 185 countries. Utilizing the GLOBOCAN database, researchers discovered that lung cancer was the most affected by modifiable risks.

The study emphasizes the need for global prevention strategies. Highlighting the impact of behavioral risk factors, particularly in men, and infections in women, researchers advocate for improved data collection and region-specific solutions to tackle this pervasive health issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)