A recent global analysis conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that nearly 40 percent of all new cancer cases can be attributed to lifestyle factors that are largely preventable. The study, published in the journal *Nature*, examined 36 types of cancer across 185 countries and identified harmful UV exposure and tobacco smoking as the leading contributors to preventable cancers in Australia.
The analysis revealed a staggering statistic: Australia is the only country where UV radiation was the primary risk factor for preventable cancers among men, while tobacco smoking dominated among women. This study comes as a stark reminder of the health risks associated with high UV levels and a predominantly fair-skinned population, which have long put Australians at heightened risk for skin cancers. A 2012 survey indicated that around 96 percent of melanomas in Australia stemmed from UV exposure.
Professor Anne Cust, a cancer epidemiologist from the Melanoma Institute, pointed out that men face a higher risk of skin cancers after the age of 45. The study serves as a crucial warning, especially as men are generally more exposed to UV rays and tend to use less protection against them. “You may not be able to undo past damage, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk going forward,” she advised.
Stories of survival, such as that of Andrew Camfield, highlight the personal impact of these statistics. Camfield, who battled stage 3 melanoma after years of sun exposure without protection, underwent surgery and extensive immunotherapy. Now cancer-free, he emphasizes the importance of UV safety and reminds his friends and sons about the consequences of neglecting sun protection. “I want them to remember the form advanced melanoma can take,” he stated.
Similarly, Craig Brewer, a stage four melanoma survivor, lamented the ongoing risks that many individuals continue to take by neglecting sun safety. “I would never wish what I went through upon anybody. It’s an unnecessary risk,” he said.
The WHO study identified 30 modifiable risk factors linked to cancer, noting that among 18.7 million new cancer cases globally in 2022, about 7.1 million were linked to these factors. The study places considerable emphasis on the importance of preventive measures in tackling the cancer burden, particularly the roles of smoking, infections, and alcohol consumption that accounted for a substantial number of preventable cases.
Dr. Isabelle Soerjomataram from the International Agency for Research on Cancer advocated for heightened prevention efforts, stating, “We have now the information to prevent cancer before it starts and help populations enjoy a healthier life.” The researchers analyzed cancer cases from 2022 against risk factors prevalent about a decade prior, indicating the long-term impact of lifestyle choices.
In addition to the focus on smoking and UV exposure, the report also lists other avoidable risk factors, such as high body mass index, insufficient physical activity, and air pollution. Among women, the HPV is a significant factor contributing to preventable cancers, with Australia making strides toward eliminating cervical cancer by 2035—though challenges remain in vaccine access for lower-income countries.
Despite the critical findings, Professor Karen Canfell noted that less than 15 percent of cancer research funding is currently directed towards prevention and early detection, underscoring the need for increased investment in these areas to pave the way for healthier futures.
With a greater awareness of these risk factors, the hope is to foster a proactive approach to cancer prevention, encouraging individuals to make informed lifestyle choices that can significantly reduce the incidence of this challenging disease.