On 8 July 2025, IARC published an epidemiological analysis linking Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection to an increased risk of developing various cancers, including lymphomas, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and lung and stomach cancers. The study is based on large population cohorts and longitudinal data from multiple countries.
The evidence suggests that long-term EBV persistence may drive molecular changes in different tissues. The research paves the way for screening approaches based on viral markers and supports the need to explore targeted preventive vaccines, especially in high-incidence areas.
The general objective of EUCanScreen is to assure sustainable implementation of high-quality screening for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers, as well as implementation of the recently recommended screening programs – for lung, prostate and gastric cancers. EUCanScreen will facilitate the reduction of cancer burden and achieving equity across the EU.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s EU4HEALTH Programme under the Grant Agreement no 101162959