A new global analysis by the World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that up to four in every ten new cancer cases worldwide could be prevented through lifestyle changes, stronger policies, and public health action.
The findings, released to coincide with World Cancer Day on February 4, 2026, are based on a Nature Medicine study that examined data from 185 countries and 36 cancer types.
The report shows that 37% of the 18.7 million new cancer cases in 2022 were linked to modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use, infections, and unhealthy lifestyle exposures.
“The science is clear,” said Dr Maria Neira, WHO Director of Environment, Climate Change and Health. “A large portion of cancers — particularly those related to tobacco, infections and unhealthy environments — are not inevitable. They are preventable.”
Tobacco remains the single largest preventable cause of cancer, accounting for about 15% of new cases globally. Infectious agents such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and Helicobacter pylori together contribute around 10% of cases.
Vaccines, Behaviour Change and Policy Action
Dr Elisabete Weiderpass, Director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), stressed the importance of prevention.
“Smoking and infection-associated cancers continue to take an enormous toll. Effective prevention is not only possible — it must be prioritised,” she said.
The study highlighted cervical cancer as a stark example of preventable disease, overwhelmingly caused by HPV — a virus for which safe vaccines exist. Similarly, cancers linked to H. pylori infection can be reduced through improved sanitation and medical screening.
“We are at a moment where public health interventions — such as HPV vaccination, tobacco control measures, and healthier environmental policies — could save millions of lives,” Dr Weiderpass added.
Regional and Gender Differences
The WHO analysis found significant differences in preventable cancer burdens between sexes and regions.
- In men, about 45% of cancers were attributable to modifiable factors.
- In women, the figure was lower, at around 30%.
- Regional estimates varied widely, with East Asia, Latin America, North Africa, and West Asia showing different patterns of risk exposure.
“These differences reflect variation in lifestyles, environmental exposures, and access to preventive care,” Dr Neira explained. “This is why tailored; locally relevant strategies are essential.”
WHO is urging governments and health systems worldwide to scale up proven interventions, including tobacco taxation, public smoking bans, vaccinations, and air quality improvements.
“We must shift the focus upstream,” Dr Neira said. “Investing in prevention not only saves lives but reduces long-term health costs and strengthens resilient health systems.”
The study reveals that while cancer is a major global health challenge, nearly 40% of cases could be averted with strategic public health action, political will, and better community engagement.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment 💬, Share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
