Study Links Preventable Infections to 2.3 Million Cancer Cases Worldwide

A new global analysis estimates that infections were linked to 2.3 million new cancer cases in 2024, representing about 12 per cent of all new cases worldwide. Helicobacter pylori was linked to about 760,000 cases, followed by human papillomavirus at 750,000 and hepatitis B at 360,000. Epstein-Barr virus and hepatitis C also accounted for hundreds of thousands of cases. Sub-Saharan Africa recorded an infection-related cancer rate of 28.5 cases per 100,000 people, above the global average of 22.7. Researchers say stronger vaccination, screening, testing and treatment programmes can prevent or reduce many of these cancers. Key measures include HPV and hepatitis B vaccination, treatment for hepatitis and H. pylori infections, safe injections, condom use, and screening for precancerous cervical lesions.

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