A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology has revealed that infections play a significant role in causing cancer, with approximately one in eight new cancer cases worldwide in 2024 linked to various infectious agents.
According to researchers at The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the bacterium Helicobacter pylori was responsible for the largest number of cancer cases globally, particularly in eastern Asia, where it led to around 760,000 stomach cancer cases. Human papillomavirus (HPV) was another major contributor, causing nearly 750,000 new cancer cases globally, including cervical cancer and other related cancers, with high prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa.
The study also highlighted the association of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) with liver cancer cases. Additionally, researchers identified 16 additional types of cancer linked to infections, including the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in cancers such as nasopharyngeal cancer and Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The study emphasized the need for increased awareness of the impact of infections on cancer development and the importance of preventive measures. Despite advancements in understanding the link between infections and cancer, challenges remain in implementing effective prevention strategies globally, especially in low- and medium-resourced countries.
In Canada, a 2019 study estimated that infections accounted for four percent of cancer cases, leading to over 7,000 cancer diagnoses annually. Human papillomavirus (HPV) remains a focus in Canada, with efforts to enhance vaccination rates and screening programs to combat cervical cancer, which saw a plateau in reduction rates last year.
Experts stress the importance of addressing infections such as Helicobacter pylori, which can lead to stomach cancer, through screening programs targeting high-risk populations. Dr. Paul Moayyedi from McMaster University advocates for universal screening for the bacterium and early treatment to prevent the progression to cancer, particularly in communities at higher risk.
The study underscores the significance of understanding and addressing the impact of infections on cancer development and the need for comprehensive strategies to reduce the burden of infection-related cancers globally.