Epidemiological Relationship Between Infectious Diseases and Cancer: Implications for Public Health Policies and Therapeutic Approaches

Abstract

A crucial area of cancer epidemiology is the interaction between infectious illnesses and cancer, which has significant effects on treatment approaches and public health. This review elucidates the epidemiological associations between infectious agents and cancer, underscoring the importance of these relationships in the development of cancer prevention and treatment protocols. Through the application of a comprehensive review of the literature methodology, we examine studies that show how infectious agents-like Helicobacter pylori, hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV and HCV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)—have a role in the genesis of cancers, such as gastric, liver, cervical, and Kaposi's sarcoma. According to our research, infectious agents contribute to certain types of cancer incidences globally, as identified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This suggests that specific infectious disease control interventions, including immunization and antimicrobial therapy, may be able to prevent cancer. This research additionally discusses the ways by which infectious agents, such as immune evasion, genetic modifications, and chronic inflammation, contribute to the development of cancer. These findings have important ramifications for methods of therapy and public health regulations. The integration of infectious disease control methods, such as vaccination programs and antibiotic prophylaxis, could greatly improve cancer prevention strategies. Furthermore, novel therapeutic techniques that target these microbial components become possible as a result of understanding how infectious pathogens contribute to the development of cancer. To better understand the complex relationship between infectious diseases and cancer, this review highlights the necessity of conducting multidisciplinary research in the future. Advancements in molecular techniques and data analysis are essential for identifying new infectious agents linked to cancer, understanding their mechanisms of action, and developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. This comprehensive strategy highlights the essential junction of infectious illnesses and oncology in the creation of public health strategies and holds the possibility of drastically reducing the worldwide cancer burden owing to infectious agents.