Infections linked to 1 in 8 new cancer cases globally

A global analysis led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and published in The Lancet Oncology reveals that approximately 1 in 8 new cancer cases worldwide in 2024—roughly 2.3 million cases—are attributable to infectious agents.

The study identifies 12 infectious pathogens classified as Group 1 carcinogens. The primary drivers include the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which accounted for approximately 760,000 cases, and the human papillomavirus (HPV), linked to about 750,000 cases. Other significant contributors include hepatitis B (360,000 cases), Epstein-Barr virus (260,000 cases), and hepatitis C (160,000 cases).

Researchers emphasize that many of these cancers are preventable through existing medical interventions, such as vaccines, diagnostic screenings, and antimicrobial therapies. However, the report notes that the global rate of cancer linked to infections has remained largely unchanged since 2018, highlighting persistent gaps in vaccination coverage, diagnostic infrastructure, and equitable access to treatment, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.