Table 3

Examples of site specific risk factors

Risk factorsSelected chemicals or occupations classified as IARC group 1 carcinogensMajor cancer sites
*Low risk (= protective) factor.
TobaccoOropharynx, larynx, lung, oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, ureter, bladder, cervix
Betel quidOropharynx, oesophagus
Diet
    Fat/calorieColon, breast? prostate?
    Dietary fibreColon
    SaltStomach
    Vegetables/fruits*AflatoxinsStomach and other organs
Infection
Viruses
    HBV/HCVLiver
    HPV/HSV-2Cervix
    EBVLymphatic system, nasopharynx
    HTLV-1Haemato-lymphatic system (T cells)
Parasites
    Schistosomiasis haematobiumUrinary bladder
    Opisthorchis viverriniLiver (cholangioma)
    Clonorchis scinensisLiver
Bacteria
    Helicobacter pyloriStomach
Reproductive factorsBreast
OccupationAuramineLung, skin, bladder
Coal tar
Iron and steel founding
Mineral oils
Mustard gas
Nickel
AlcoholOropharynx, oesophagus, colon–rectum?, breast?
Sunlight/radiationSkin
PollutionArsenic and arsenic compoundsLung
Medicine and medical proceduresOestrogen replace therapyHaematopoietic system, breast
Oral contraceptives
Sexual behaviourCervix
Industrial products
Food additives
ObesityBreast
Exercise*Colon–sigmoid
StressStomach