The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is an independent agency that operates under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO). It was established in 1965 and is headquartered in Lyon, France. The primary mandate of IARC is to conduct and coordinate research on the causes and prevention of cancer.
IARC plays a crucial role in generating scientific evidence to inform policies and actions related to cancer control worldwide. It conducts both laboratory and epidemiological research to identify carcinogenic agents and evaluate their potential impact on human health. This includes studying various environmental, occupational, and lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of cancer.
The agency collaborates with scientists and experts from around the globe to assess the carcinogenicity of different agents and to classify them based on the strength of evidence available. The classifications are published in the IARC Monographs, which provide comprehensive evaluations of various substances, mixtures, and exposures, including chemicals, biological agents, occupational exposures, physical agents, and lifestyle factors.
In addition to research, IARC also provides training opportunities for scientists and experts, disseminates information and scientific knowledge, and collaborates with other organizations in the fight against cancer. The agency's ultimate goal is to contribute to the prevention and control of cancer through evidence-based strategies, public health interventions, and policy recommendations.
