IARC researchers analyzed data from the global cancer database GLOBOCAN for 2024 and estimated the number of cancer cases linked to 12 infectious agents that the agency classifies as proven human carcinogens reports The Insider.
The largest number of cases was linked to the bacterium Helicobacter pylori — about 760,000, mostly stomach cancer. Almost as many, about 750,000 cases, were attributed to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes virtually all cases of cervical cancer, as well as some cases of anal, genital, and oropharyngeal cancer.
Another about 360,000 cases were linked by researchers to hepatitis B virus. About 260,000 cases were attributed to Epstein–Barr virus, and another approximately 160,000 to hepatitis C.
Together, these five infections account for the overwhelming majority of all infection-related cancer cases. The new estimate takes into account more confirmed links between infections and tumors than previous studies, including data on the link between Epstein–Barr virus and stomach cancer.
The greatest burden fell on East Asia: there researchers counted about 990,000 cases, or 42% of all infection-related cancer diseases worldwide. Age-standardized incidence also exceeded the global average in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia.
The authors attribute regional differences in part to the prevalence of specific infections and the availability of vaccination, diagnosis, and treatment. Among the preventive measures they name vaccines against HPV and hepatitis B, antiviral treatment for hepatitis C, detection and treatment of Helicobacter pylori, as well as testing and treatment for HIV and viral hepatitis, safe injections, condom use, and screening for precancerous changes associated with HPV.
Sources
