Researchers estimate that about one in eight cancers worldwide - roughly 2.3 million cases in 2024 - are attributable to infectious agents. Two pathogens, Helicobacter pylori and human papillomavirus (HPV), together account for more than 1.5 million of those cases; hepatitis B was linked to about 360,000 cancers and Epstein-Barr virus to about 260,000. The analysis updates prior work by adding newly recognized associations, such as links between Epstein-Barr virus and some stomach cancers and rarer lymphomas, and maps geographic differences in infection-linked cancer burden, with higher rates in regions like sub‑Saharan Africa tied in part to gaps in screening and prevention.
Many of these cancers are preventable with existing tools: vaccines, screening and treatment. HPV vaccination, introduced in 2006, prevents multiple cancers and has driven more than 50 percent reductions in cervical cancer in some U.S. states among the first vaccinated cohorts; hepatitis B vaccination and hepatitis C treatment lower liver‑cancer risk; antibiotics reduce cancer risk from H. pylori. Experts highlight that these are actionable, population‑level interventions and call for equitable vaccine delivery and expanded screening programs to substantially reduce the global cancer burden caused by infections.
Summary generated by AI from the linked article. hn.today is not affiliated with Hacker News or Y Combinator.
Scott Bessent, once seen as a credible Treasury Secretary, has damaged his reputation by intervening in markets and making bold claims about influencing interest rates. Rising interest rates, driven by geopolitical tensions and inflation, have led to a market decline, highlighting his failed market strategies. (paulkrugman.substack.com)
The EU Kids Act aims to help children navigate the online world more safely by 2026. It is part of the European Commission's broader efforts to promote digital safety and protect young users. (commission.europa.eu)
Google, Apple, and Amazon hold more meetings with EU officials than any European companies. These meetings involve the European Parliament and European Commission. (ft.com)
AI borrowers are increasingly seeking credit in risky sectors of the US market. Lenders are cautious due to the rising risks associated with AI-driven borrowing activities. (reuters.com)
A rogue Wikipedia editor, Jagged_85, falsely credited Muslims with numerous inventions during the Islamic Golden Age, spreading exaggerated and fraudulent claims. These inaccuracies have been widely propagated, influencing both popular media and scholarly literature. (cremieux.xyz)
California has banned child marriage, requiring individuals to be at least 18 to marry, starting January 1. Governor Gavin Newsom called the law overdue, and advocate Courtney Stodden praised it as a victory. (bbc.com)
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