Nearly 1.9 Lakh Cancer Cases in India Linked to Infections
A study in The Lancet Oncology reveals that nearly 1.9 lakh cancer cases in India in 2024 were linked to preventable viral and bacterial infections. Experts emphasize that vaccination, screening, and early treatment are critical strategies for reducing this cancer burden.
Why it matters
Identifying the link between infections and cancer provides a clear roadmap for public health interventions and preventative medicine in India.
Nearly 1.9 lakh cancer cases in India in 2024 were linked to viral and bacterial infections, according to a study published in The Lancet Oncology . Globally, infections were associated with around 23 lakh new cancer cases, highlighting the significant role that preventable infections can play in the cancer burden.
In India, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) was the leading infection linked to cancer, accounting for more than one lakh cases, particularly cervical cancer. H. pylori was another major contributor, associated with around 47,000 cases. Other infections included Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
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