WHO estimates that over 1.5 million of the total of 10 million new cancer cases a year could be avoided by preventing the infection associated with them. About 6.6 million people died from all types of cancer last year. Three main cancers are linked to infections. The bacterium also causes duodenal and gastric ulcers and gastritis. The viruses are transmitted in a number of ways, including through contaminated blood or blood products and through sexual intercourse.
Some cases are the result of infection with both viruses.
The report identifies priorities for action in three categories. It says that by applying existing technology and expertise, many infectious diseases can be controlled, eliminated or eradicated. The report says the strategy for controlling them largely involves cost-effective interventions, which also exist for many of them. But the development of antimicrobial drug resistance or of pesticide resistance, poses a greater threat to public health. The natural history of diseases such as Ebola and other viral haemorrhagic fevers is unknown, and there is incomplete understanding of the factors behind their emergence.