Scientists have found that one in eight cases of cancer in the world is caused by infections
Scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) found that in 2024, about 12% of all cancer diagnoses (2.3 million cases) in the world were caused by infections.
Scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) found that in 2024, about 12% of all cancer diagnoses (2.3 million cases) in the world were caused by infections. The results of the study are published in the journal The Lancet Oncology.
According to the findings of scientists, the main pathogens associated with the development of cancer are the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C viruses, and the Epstein-Barr virus. For example, H. pylori and HPV each account for 4% of all new cancer diagnoses, the hepatitis B virus accounts for about 2%, and the Epstein-Barr virus accounts for 1% of cases.
Infections cause more than 20 types of cancer, including tumors of the stomach, liver, some blood cancers and cervical cancer. Mechanisms develop in different ways: viruses can interfere with cell function or embed their DNA into the human genome, and the bacterium can cause chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of mutations.
The study authors emphasize that it is possible to prevent many cancers caused by these infections. To date, there are vaccines against HPV and hepatitis B. Helicobacter pylori infection is detected and treated with antibiotics, and antiviral drugs are available for hepatitis C.
Russia plans to start vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) among girls 12-13 years old from the second half of 2027. Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko said this at the All-Russian Educational Forum “Mother and Child” on September 28.
Now in Russia, the domestic vaccine against HPV "Tsegardex" (produced by the company "Nanolek") is used. The vaccine protects against virus types 6, 11, 16 and 18. The drug is registered for use in children and adults aged nine to 45 years.
As previously noted by a member of the State Duma Committee on Health Yulia Drozhina, doctors recommend to put the HPV vaccine to girls in adolescence, optimally up to 14 years - it is during this period that it is most effective and really reduces the risks of infection and development of cancer.
