All you need to know about: Epstein-Barr virus
The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a widespread human virus that remains dormant in the body after initial infection. While most people are asymptomatic, recent research links the virus to several types of cancer, including gastric cancer.
Why it matters
Understanding the link between common viruses and cancer is critical for public health awareness and future preventative medical strategies.
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is among the most widespread of human viruses. More than 90% of adults are estimated to have been infected during their lifetime. Most people acquire the infection during childhood without developing symptoms. In some, particularly those infected during adolescence or adulthood, it can cause infectious mononucleosis. The virus then remains in the body for life.
A new analysis by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer agency of the World Health Organization (WHO), estimates that about 2.3 million new cancer cases worldwide in 2024 were attributable to infections. The analysis incorporates recent evidence linking EBV with gastric cancer and places EBV among the infectious agents responsible for a substantial cancer burden worldwide.
EBV, also known as human herpesvirus 4, belongs to the herpesvirus family. It spreads mainly through saliva, including through kissing or sharing drinks, food, eating utensils and toothbrushes.
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