WHO Study: Over a Third of Cancers Preventable with Healthy Habits

A significant portion of global cancer cases, over 38%, could be prevented through targeted medical interventions and modifications to daily habits, according to a new World Health Organization (WHO) report. The study, which analyzed 2022 data, identified nearly 19 million new cancer cases worldwide, highlighting the potential impact of public health strategies.

Smoking emerged as the primary preventable cause, contributing to 15% of all cancer diagnoses in 2022. The report noted a particularly strong link in men, where smoking accounted for 23% of new cancer cases. Despite being a major risk factor, tobacco use remains a persistent challenge for global health authorities.

Beyond smoking, the WHO report underscores the role of environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Air pollution was identified as a significant contributor, with its impact varying by region. In some parts of Asia, pollution was linked to 15% of lung cancer cases in women, while in North Africa and Western Asia, it accounted for nearly 20% of male lung cancer diagnoses. Alcohol consumption was also cited as a preventable risk factor, responsible for approximately 700,000 new cases, or 3.2% of the total.

Infections also played a role, contributing to 10% of new diagnoses. The findings emphasize the urgent need for global public health measures to address these modifiable risk factors and reduce the overall burden of cancer.

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Addressing these preventable causes represents one of the most powerful opportunities to reduce the global burden of cancer.