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Environmental causes of human cancers
1International Agency for Research on Cancer, 150 cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France. montesano@iarc.fr
European Journal of Cancer (Oxford, England : 1990)
|October 17, 2001
Summary
Identifying environmental causes of cancer, like tobacco and viral infections, is crucial. Primary prevention remains the most effective strategy for reducing cancer mortality globally.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Epidemiological studies confirm causal links between tobacco use and various human cancers.
- Hepatitis B and C infections are linked to hepatocellular carcinoma; human papillomaviruses are linked to cervical cancer.
- The occupational origins of certain human cancers are well-established, highlighting environmental factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the established and emerging environmental causes of human cancers.
- To emphasize the ongoing challenges in identifying specific dietary components and interacting risk factors in cancer etiology.
- To underscore the importance of primary cancer prevention strategies worldwide.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological evidence linking environmental exposures to cancer.
- Analysis of established etiological factors such as infections and occupational exposures.
- Discussion of the complexities in identifying dietary roles and multifactorial risk interactions.
Main Results:
- Clear causal associations exist between tobacco exposure and numerous cancers.
- Specific infections (Hepatitis B/C, HPV) are causally linked to specific cancers (hepatocellular carcinoma, cervical cancer).
- Environmental and occupational factors are significant contributors to cancer development.
Conclusions:
- Primary cancer prevention is the most effective measure to reduce cancer mortality in developed and developing nations.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the role of diet and interacting risk factors in cancer etiology.
- Understanding environmental carcinogens is key to effective cancer control.
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