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It is estimated that over
40% of all cancer can be prevented. However, dramatic increases in
risk factors such as tobacco use and obesity are contributing to the
rise in cancer rates, particularly in low- and middle-income
countries. A rapidly changing global environment due to
globalization of markets and urbanization is leading to rising
consumption of processed foods high in fats, sugars and salt, as
well as tobacco products; declining consumption of fruit and
vegetables; and more sedentary activity levels. As a consequence the
burden (incidence) of cancer and other chronic diseases is
increasing. Other preventable risk factors include many
environmental carcinogens and infections caused by Hepatitis B Virus
and Human Papilloma Virus.
WHO is taking significant measures to prevent cancer and other chronic
diseases. A key achievement has been the entry into force this past
year of the first-ever WHO global health treaty. The WHO Framework
Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), is a major step towards
the goal of reducing tobacco use, which is the leading preventable
cause of cancer. To date, 121 countries have ratified the treaty.
To improve early detection, treatment and care of
cancer patients, WHO's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
is providing the scientific evidence for cancer causes and
mechanisms of cancer development as well as developing strategies
for early detection of cancer. Moreover, WHO acts in partnership
with a range of major stakeholders in cancer control, including
other UN organizations such as the International Atomic Energy
Agency (IAEA), NGOs such as the International Union Against Cancer (UICC)
and many national cancer institutes. |
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