WHO Says Nearly 40% Of Cancer Cases Worldwide Are Preventable; 5 Major Risk Factors You Should Know

WHO Warns 37% Of Global Cancer Cases Are Preventable; Highlights Major Risk Factors And Prevention Measures

Nearly four in every 10 cancer cases worldwide may be preventable through measures that reduce exposure to established risk factors, according to a global study by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

The analysis, published ahead of World Cancer Day on February 4, 2026, found that approximately 37% of new cancer cases diagnosed in 2022, or around 7.1 million cases, were associated with preventable causes. Researchers assessed 30 risk factors across 185 countries and 36 types of cancer.

The findings highlight how lifestyle habits, infectious diseases, environmental pollution and workplace conditions contribute to the global cancer burden. Health experts say reducing these exposures could prevent millions of cases and help ease the growing demand on healthcare systems.

Here are five major areas that the study identifies as important targets for cancer prevention.

1. Smoking And Tobacco Consumption

Tobacco remains the leading preventable cause of cancer worldwide, accounting for approximately 15% of all new cases. Its harmful effects extend beyond lung cancer, with smoking also associated with cancers of the mouth, throat, oesophagus and several other organs.

Reducing tobacco consumption through awareness campaigns, higher taxes, restrictions on advertising and access to smoking cessation programmes can significantly reduce the risk.

2. Cancer-Causing Infections

Infections were responsible for around 10% of new cancer cases globally, making them another major preventable risk category.

HPV is closely associated with cervical cancer, while Helicobacter pylori infection increases the risk of stomach cancer. Hepatitis B and C infections are also major contributors to liver cancer.

Vaccination, timely diagnosis, medical treatment and regular screening can help prevent several infection-related cancers.

3. Alcohol Consumption And Unhealthy Weight

Alcohol consumption contributes to several types of cancer, including breast, liver, colorectal, mouth and throat cancers. Even regular drinking at relatively low levels can increase certain cancer risks.

Excess body weight is another concern. Obesity and physical inactivity can trigger hormonal imbalances, metabolic changes and chronic inflammation, which may contribute to cancer development.

Maintaining a healthy weight, following a nutritious diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce these risks.

4. Air Pollution And Harmful Environmental Exposure

Cancer risks are also influenced by environmental conditions. Prolonged exposure to polluted air, including particulate matter from vehicles, industries and household fuels, is associated with lung cancer.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from direct sunlight and artificial tanning equipment can damage skin cells and increase the likelihood of skin cancer.

Reducing pollution, improving indoor ventilation and adopting appropriate sun-protection measures are important preventive steps.

5. Workplace Exposure To Carcinogens

Certain occupations involve prolonged contact with substances that can cause cancer. Asbestos, industrial chemicals and other hazardous materials are among the recognised workplace carcinogens.

Workers exposed to these substances may face an increased risk of developing particular cancers, especially when safety measures are inadequate.

Strict workplace regulations, protective equipment, regular health monitoring and limiting exposure to hazardous substances can help reduce these dangers.

Lung, Stomach And Cervical Cancers Among Major Preventable Cases

The WHO-IARC analysis identified lung, stomach and cervical cancers as accounting collectively for nearly half of all cancer cases linked to preventable risk factors.

Smoking and air pollution are important contributors to lung cancer, while H. pylori infection plays a major role in stomach cancer. HPV infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer.

These findings point to the importance of targeted public health interventions, including tobacco control, vaccination and infection screening.

Lifestyle Changes And Vaccination Can Help Reduce Cancer Risk

Although not every cancer case can be prevented, reducing exposure to established risk factors can make a substantial difference.

Health authorities recommend avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy body weight, eating a balanced diet and staying physically active. HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations, recommended cancer screenings and protection against excessive ultraviolet radiation are also important preventive measures.

The findings reinforce a key message: cancer prevention requires more than individual lifestyle changes. Public health policies, cleaner environments, safer workplaces and wider access to vaccination and healthcare are equally important in reducing the worldwide cancer burden.