These microorganisms constitute a major risk factor for the development of cancer

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has released a new report highlighting four viruses and bacteria that pose a significant cancer risk.

Here’s what we know

Human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses, and the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can cause a variety of cancers. HPV is linked to nearly all cases of cervical cancer in women and a significant number of penile cancers in men, and anal, throat, and oral cancers in both sexes. HBV and HCV contribute to liver cancer, and H. pylori can cause stomach cancer.

The report highlights that many of these infections can be prevented by vaccines or treated with drugs. For example, vaccines against HBV and some strains of HPV are highly effective, and chronic HCV infections can be treated with modern drugs. H. pylori is treated with antibiotics and drugs that reduce stomach acid. Overall, these four pathogens are responsible for more than 90% of infection-related cancers worldwide.

Source: AACR AACR