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Cancer and the Environment


Cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells that may affect almost any tissue of the body. Lungs, colon, rectal and stomach cancer are among the five most common cancer in the world for both men and women. Among men, lung and stomach cancer are the most common cancers worldwide. For women, the most common cancers are breast and cervical cancer. In India, oral and pharyngeal cancers form the most common type of cancers, which are related to tobacco chewing.

More than 10 million people are diagnosed with cancer on the world every year. It is estimated that there will be 15 million new cases every year or 12% of the deaths worldwide.

The causes of several cancers are known. Thus, the prevention of at least one third of all cancers is possible. Cancer is preventable by stopping smoking, providing healthy food and avoiding exposure to cancer causing agents (carcinogens). Early detection and effective treatment is possible for a further one third of cases. Most of the common cancers are curable by a combination of surgery, chemotherapy (drugs) or radiotherapy (X-rays). The chance of the cure increases if the cancer is detected at an early stage.


Cancer control is based on the prevention and control of cancer by:
  • Promoting and strengthening comprehensive national cancer control programs.
  • Building international networks and partnerships for cancer control.
  • Promoting organized, evidence based interventions for the early detection of cervical and breast cancer
  • Developing guidelines on disease and program management
  • Advocating a rational approach to effective treatments for potentially curable tumors
  • Supporting low-cost approaches to respond to global needs for pain relief and palliative care.


Prevention of Cancer
  • Tobacco smoking is the single largest preventable cause of cancer in the world. It causes 80 to 90% of all lung cancer deaths.
  • Another 30% of all cancer deaths, especially in developing countries, include deaths from cancer of the oral cavity, larynx, oesophagus and stomach, which are related to tobacco chewing. Preventive measures include bans on tobacco advertising and sponsorship, increased tax on tobacco products, and educational programs to reduce tobacco consumption.
  • Dietary modification is an important approach to cancer control. Overweight individuals and obesity are known to be associated with cancer of the oesophagus, colon, rectum, breast, uterus and kidney. Fruits and vegetables may have a protective effect against many cancers. The excessive consumption of red and preserved meat may be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
  • Infectious agents are linked with 22% of cancer deaths in developing countries and 6% in industrialized countries. Viral hepatitis B and C cause cancer of the liver. Human papilloma virus infection causes cancer of the cervix. The bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H.pyroli) increases the risk of stomach cancer.
  • In some countries, the parasitic infection schistosomiasis increases the risk of bladder cancer. Liver fluke increases the risk of cancer of the bile ducts. Preventive measures include vaccination and prevention of infection. Excessive solar UV radiation increases the risk of all types of cancer of the skin. Avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, as well as the use of sunscreens and protective clothing, are effective preventive measures. Asbestos is known to cause lung cancer. Aniline dyes have been linked to bladder cancer. Benzene can lead to leukemia (blood cancer). The prevention of certain occupational and environmental exposure to several chemicals is an important element in preventing cancer.

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