Nearly 40% of new cancer cases worldwide are linked to modifiable risk factors and could potentially be prevented, according to a major global study.
The analysis, which examined data from 185 countries, found that about 7.1 million of the 18.7 million cancer diagnoses recorded in 2022 were attributable to avoidable causes.
Tobacco smoking was identified as the leading contributor to preventable cancer cases, followed by infections and alcohol consumption.
Hackensack University Medical Center Chief of Gastroenterology Rosario Ligresti explained how this analysis has long been discussed in the medical field.
“This landmark study provides staggering evidence for what we in the oncology community have long advocated: a significant portion of the cancer burden is preventable,” he said “While we are equipped with cutting-edge treatments for patients, this research powerfully reinforces that the first line of defense against cancer often begins with personal choices. It’s a crucial message of empowerment—that quitting smoking and moderating alcohol use are not just healthy habits, but life-saving actions that can dramatically reduce one’s risk of ever needing our services.”
The study can be found here.
