Up to 37% of Global Cancer Cases Could Be Prevented, WHO Analysis Finds

Nearly seven million cancer cases each year could be avoided, according to the first global assessment of preventable cancer risk. Scientists from the World Health Organization (WHO) estimate that 37% of cancers are linked to infections, lifestyle habits, and environmental exposures that can be reduced.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer analysed 30 risk factors across 185 countries. Tobacco use was the largest contributor, responsible for 3.3 million cases in 2022, followed by infections such as HPV and hepatitis (2.3 million cases) and alcohol consumption (700,000 cases). Lung, stomach, and cervical cancers accounted for almost half of all preventable diagnoses.

The burden varies by region and sex. About 45% of cancers in men are preventable, compared with 30% in women. In sub-Saharan Africa, infections drive most preventable cases, while in Europe smoking remains the leading cause.

Researchers say targeted policies — including vaccination, tobacco control, and pollution reduction — could significantly cut global cancer rates.

09-02-2026