Four in ten cancer cases could be prevented – updated European Code Against Cancer highlights the need to avoid alcohol
- AlcoholAndCancer
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20.10.2025 - Cancer is expected to become the most common cause of death in Europe within the next decade, and the number of cancer cases is projected to rise sharply within fifteen years. Yet research shows that up to four in ten cases could be prevented if more people followed established recommendations. These include avoiding tobacco and alcohol, protecting against UV radiation, staying physically active, and taking part in screening and vaccination programmes. The updated European Code Against Cancer (ECAC), launched in Berlin on 19 October, now provides clearer and broader guidance for both individuals and societies on how to prevent cancer.
The ECAC, developed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) under the World Health Organization (WHO), has existed since 1987 and is based on the latest scientific evidence. The new, fifth version expands the number of recommendations from twelve to fourteen, reflecting new insights and priorities in cancer prevention. One of the most notable changes concerns alcohol: while earlier versions advised limiting alcohol intake, the new guidance is unambiguous - avoid alcohol entirely. This stronger message follows mounting evidence that any amount of alcohol increases cancer risk.
Other updates include advice to reduce exposure to air pollution, to limit consumption of ultra-processed foods, and to include e-cigarettes under the tobacco recommendations. The updated code also introduces lung cancer screening as part of national programmes and continues to emphasize HPV vaccination, now recommended for boys as well.
Beyond individual behaviour, ECAC5 places greater emphasis on society’s role in cancer prevention. Policymakers and organizations are encouraged to create environments that make healthy choices easier, from urban planning and legislation to education and workplace design. “Several sectors of society have an important part to play,” said Cecilia Hultstrand, chair of Sweden’s national working group for cancer prevention. “It’s about working together across fields to find smart, evidence-based solutions.”
Translated versions of ECAC5 will be published on 4 February 2026.