Question 222 of 433
Is it true that some cancers are caused by infections?
The short answer
Yes. Roughly one in eight cancers worldwide is caused by an infection that can be prevented or treated.
HPV causes nearly all cervical cancers and many throat and anal cancers. The vaccine prevents them, and it is for boys as well as girls.
Hepatitis B and C cause most liver cancer. There is a vaccine for B and a cure for C. Every adult should be tested for both at least once.
H. pylori, a stomach bacterium, is the main cause of stomach cancer. It is found with a breath or stool test and cured with two weeks of antibiotics. Testing is especially worthwhile if you have a family history of stomach cancer, were born in a region where it is common, or have long-standing indigestion.
This is some of the most effective cancer prevention there is, and it costs very little.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ROBUST HUMAN EVIDENCE — Selected infections cause cancers; vaccination or eradication reduces relevant risks.Evidence grade (draft mapping)ARobust human trialsPart 16, Q222 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.