Infections linked to 12% of global cancer cases, study finds

A study published in The Lancet Oncology indicates that approximately 12% of new cancer diagnoses worldwide are linked to viral and bacterial infections. Researchers from the International Agency for Research on Cancer, in collaboration with experts from China and Japan, analyzed 2024 medical data provided by the World Health Organization.

The research identifies 12 primary infectious agents responsible for these cases. Key contributors include the Helicobacter pylori bacterium, which is linked to stomach cancer, and several viruses such as the human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), the Epstein-Barr virus, and HIV.

Experts note that many of these infections are preventable through existing tools, such as vaccines. For instance, HPV and hepatitis infections can be mitigated via vaccination, while risks from H. pylori can be reduced through improved hygiene and access to clean water.