Population attributable fraction as a key measure of primary cancer prevention strategy
10.5124/jkma.2025.68.2.82
- Author:
Sohee PARK
1
;
Yoon-Jung CHOI
;
Sue Kyung PARK
;
Hong Gwan SEO
Author Information
1. Department of Health Informatics and Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Opinion
- From:Journal of the Korean Medical Association
2025;68(2):82-86
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
A fundamental objective of public health is to identify the causes of diseases and associated risk factors to develop effective prevention strategies. In this regard, the population attributable fraction (PAF) has become a key epidemiological measure for quantifying the proportion of disease incidence in a population attributable to specific risk factors.Current Concepts: The concept of PAF is widely applied in epidemiological and public health research, playing a crucial role in prioritizing disease prevention and management strategies. Estimating the PAF of cancer risk factors based on national data provides essential evidence for the formulation of government-led cancer control policies and prevention strategies. In particular, these estimates serve as critical indicators for evaluating cancer control programs and informing policy decisions. Given the variations in risk factor prevalence across different populations, it is crucial to estimate PAF using country-specific data to ensure the development of tailored and effective public health interventions.Discussion and Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of PAF as a foundational tool for evidencebased policymaking and highlights the need for periodic reassessment to enhance the effectiveness of cancer prevention and control efforts.
