Does delayed EBV infection contribute to rising childhood cancers?

Childhood cancer is on the rise in high-income countries. Epidemiological studies suggest that reduced exposure to common infections in early life is to blame. However, no specific infection responsible for protection against cancer has been identified, and the underlying mechanisms remain a matter of speculation. Recent findings that Epstein-Barr virus ( EBV) can induce antitumor immunity lead us to hypothesize that the delay in EBV infection in such countries might contribute to the increase in childhood cancers.

Automated summary

Childhood cancer is increasing in high-income countries, possibly due to reduced exposure to common infections in early life. The specific infection responsible for cancer protection has not been identified, but recent findings suggest that delayed Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection might contribute to the rise in childhood cancers.