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world cancer report - iarc

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The causes of <strong>cancer</strong><br />

Information on <strong>cancer</strong> causation has come from investigation<br />

of the patterns of <strong>cancer</strong> in human populations and the<br />

induction of tumours in experimental animals following treatment<br />

with <strong>cancer</strong>-causing agents. The most important human<br />

carcinogens include tobacco, asbestos, aflatoxins and ultraviolet<br />

light. Almost 20% of <strong>cancer</strong>s are associated with chronic<br />

infections, the most significant ones being hepatitis viruses<br />

(HBV, HCV), papillomaviruses (HPV) and Helicobacter<br />

pylori. There is increasing recognition of the causative role of<br />

lifestyle factors, including diet, physical activity, and alcohol<br />

consumption. Genetic susceptibility may significantly alter the<br />

risk from environmental exposures.<br />

Detail from Edgard Maxence, Femme à l’orchidée, 1900 (RF 1989-41) Paris, musée d’Orsay.<br />

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