Research by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) indicates that in 2024, infections could cause one in eight cancer cases globally. This would account for 2.3 million new cases, representing 12 percent. The study identifies five main infections contributing significantly to these cases. Published in Lancet Oncology, the report emphasizes the potential to prevent many cancers through better infection control.
Dr. Patrick Moore from the University of Pittsburgh compares this fraction to lung cancer cases in the U.S., emphasizing infection as a misunderstood factor in cancer. He highlights geographic differences in infection-related cancer risks, pointing to potential increases in infectious cancers due to policy changes affecting HIV treatment in sub-Saharan Africa and successes in Asia with HBV vaccination.
Karl Munger of Tufts University notes the IARC’s estimate might be lower than expected, with other studies suggesting infections could cause 15 to 20 percent of global cancer cases. He stresses the importance of recognizing and preventing infection-associated cancers, particularly in high-income countries where they are less prevalent.
The Infections Behind Cancer Cases
Key infectious causes of cancer in 2024 are Helicobacter pylori, human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Helicobacter pylori is linked to 760,000 cases, mainly gastric cancer. HPV is associated with 750,000 cases, including cervical and other types of cancer. HBV contributes to about 360,000 liver cancer cases, while EBV is linked to 260,000 cases, including nasopharyngeal cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma. HCV accounts for 160,000 liver cancer cases.
Regions like Eastern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa have high burdens of these infection-related cancers. These differences reflect varying infection rates and access to prevention and treatment, influenced by social and economic factors.
Preventable Cancer Cases
Dr. Shan-Lu Liu from The Ohio State University points out the potential to prevent many of these cancers through vaccination, screening, and treatment. The study highlights geographic disparities as a global health equity issue.
Dr. Gary Clifford, IARC scientist and study lead, explains that infections disrupt cellular processes, increasing the risk of cancer. Chronic inflammation and tissue damage also play roles. Moore notes that some viruses carry oncogenes, promoting cancer in appropriate conditions like immune suppression.
Future Actions
The findings underscore the preventability of many cancers linked to known infections, emphasizing the role of vaccination and treatment. The IARC notes existing tools like HPV and HBV vaccines and treatments for infections like H. pylori, HBV, and HCV. However, financial, social, and political barriers complicate their accessibility, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Efforts should focus on expanding vaccines, testing, and treatment, especially in high-risk areas. Strengthening cancer screening and improving access in regions with significant infection-related cancer cases is crucial. Policymakers and health systems are urged to enhance interventions and ensure equitable care access.
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