Up to 40% of cancer cases globally could be avoided by tackling preventable risk factors, according to a major new analysis by the World Health Organization and its cancer research arm, the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Drawing on data from 185 countries, the study estimates that 37% of new cancers diagnosed in 2022 - around 7.1 million cases - were linked to modifiable causes, led by tobacco use (15%), cancer-causing infections (10%), and alcohol consumption (3%).

Lung, stomach, and cervical cancers together accounted for nearly half of all preventable cases worldwide, driven largely by smoking and air pollution, Helicobacter pylori, and human papillomavirus infection, respectively.

The burden was substantially higher in men than women and varied widely across regions, reflecting differences in exposure, prevention policies, and health system capacity.

Source: WHO | [Read full story](https://www.who.int/news/item/03-02-2026-four-in-ten-cancer-cases-could-be-prevented-globally