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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
Find out how we produce our information|
There are over 200 different types of cancer. We don't know the causes for each one of these cancers, but we do know about some. It is important to note that for many cancers, there may be more than one cause.
Factors such as age, smoking and obesity can increase the risk of developing certain cancers.
There are a number of viruses, such as HPV, that may be linked to certain types of cancer. But cancer itself is not infectious and can't be passed from one person to another.
Some types of cancer can be caused by particular chemicals or by environmental factors like sun exposure.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.