Global Study Links 12 Percent of New Cancer Cases to Infections

A new global study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer shows that infections caused 2.3 million new cancer cases in 2024, making up 12 percent of all cancer cases worldwide that year. Researchers found that a bacterium and several viruses are linked to these cases, with a large proportion occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Traditionally, cancer risk is associated with tobacco use, excessive alcohol, and obesity, but this research highlights the role of infectious agents in leading to certain cancers.

Context

Infections can sometimes trigger cellular changes that eventually develop into cancer over time. Medical experts study these links to improve prevention strategies and public health policies worldwide.