Almost half of preventable cancers in seniors caused by smoking and alcohol

A recent study by the World Health Organisation reveals that over a third of all cancer cases globally are preventable — particularly significant news for seniors, who fall into the high-risk category for the disease.

The analysis shows that in 2022, of nearly 19 million new cancer cases, approximately 38% were linked to modifiable risk factors. These include smoking, alcohol consumption, air pollution, obesity, physical inactivity, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation — factors that affect older people in particular.

Smoking: the greatest threat to seniors

Smoking remains the most dangerous risk factor, accounting for 15% of all cancer cases. For older men, the impact is even more stark — smoking contributes to 23% of new cancer diagnoses. This figure is alarming for seniors who have smoked throughout their lives, underlining the importance of quitting even at an advanced age.

Air pollution represents another significant risk factor, with varying impact across regions. In East Asia, approximately 15% of lung cancer cases in women are associated with air pollution, whilst in North Africa and West Asia that figure reaches 20% among men.

Alcohol: the second largest risk factor

Alcohol consumption ranks second among modifiable risk factors, being associated with 3.2% of all new cancer cases. For seniors — who may already have existing health conditions and take multiple medications — the combination of alcohol and medication can increase cancer risk still further.

Together, smoking and alcohol consumption account for nearly half (48%) of all preventable cancer cases, a statistic that highlights the importance of lifestyle change even in later life.

WHO specialists stress that this analysis demonstrates that nearly 4 in 10 cancer cases could be prevented by eliminating exposure to the identified risk factors. For seniors, this message offers genuine hope: it is never too late to adopt a healthier lifestyle and take steps to protect your health.