The world’s leading cancer researchers are calling for swift action and more effective prevention strategies to halt the spiralling cost and impact of cancer. 
 
In its World Cancer Report 2014, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) says the global cancer epidemic is growing at an alarming rate. “Despite exciting advances, this Report shows that we cannot treat our way out of the cancer problem,” says Dr. Christopher Wild, Director of IARC and report co-editor. “More commitment to prevention and early detection is desperately needed in order to complement improved treatments and address the alarming rise in cancer burden globally.”
 
About 14 million new cases of cancer are reported every year, a number expected to rise to 22 million in the next two decades. About half of these cancers could be prevented if current knowledge was acted upon the Report says.
 
Researchers also believe toxic environmental exposures, including workplace exposures, may be responsible for seven to 19 per cent of all cancers. In Canada, occupational cancer is the leading cause of work-related deaths.
 
IARC is among those calling for a greater reliance on primary prevention initiatives including adequate legislation to protect people against environmental and occupational carcinogens.
 
Read the full IARC press release
 
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WHSC offers training and information resources to help workplace representatives identify and control workplace carcinogens. Check out our complete Training Catalogue and Hazard Resource Lines.
 
Want to learn more?  Contact WHSC and ask to speak with a Training Services Representative.
 
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