Global Cancer Diagnoses Expected to Reach 35 Million by 2050, WHO Estimates
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new estimates that predict a significant increase in global cancer diagnoses by the year 2050. According to the data from WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, the number of cancer cases is expected to reach 35 million, marking a staggering 77% increase from the 20 million cases diagnosed in 2022.
The study encompasses 185 countries and covers 36 different forms of cancer. The researchers found that lung cancer was the most prevalent type worldwide in 2022, accounting for 2.5 million cases or 12.4% of the total. It was followed by female breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and stomach cancer. Lung cancer also claimed the highest number of lives, causing 1.8 million deaths, which is nearly 19% of all cancer-related deaths.
The report also highlights the disparities in cancer burden among developed nations. In countries with a very high Human Development Index (HDI), a measure of achievements in health, education, and standard of living, breast cancer affects 1 in 12 women, with 1 in 71 dying from it. In contrast, low-HDI countries see lower rates of breast cancer diagnoses (1 in 27 women), but a higher mortality rate (1 in 48) due to late diagnosis and limited access to treatments.
Inequities were also observed in cancer services such as radiation and stem cell transplants. Dr. Bente Mikkelsen, director of WHO’s Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, expressed concern over the lack of financial protection for cancer care globally, particularly in lower-income countries. WHO is actively collaborating with over 75 governments to develop and implement policies that promote accessible cancer care for all. However, substantial investments are urgently needed to address the global disparities in cancer outcomes.
The anticipated rise in cancer rates can be attributed to several factors, including obesity, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and environmental factors such as air pollution. These findings align with a recent report by the American Cancer Society, which revealed that while cancer deaths in the United States have been declining, certain forms of the disease are becoming more prevalent. The decline in cancer deaths in the US can be attributed to reduced tobacco use, improved detection methods, and advancements in treatments. However, racial disparities persist, with people of color facing higher risks.
Furthermore, the American Cancer Society report highlighted a concerning trend of younger individuals being diagnosed with cancer. The share of colorectal cancer diagnoses in adults under 55 has risen from 11% in 1995 to 20% in 2019, according to previous research.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, President Joe Biden has made the fight against cancer a significant focus of his administration. His Cancer Moonshot initiative aims to cut US cancer deaths in half within 25 years. To achieve this ambitious goal, agencies such as NASA, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Veterans Affairs have joined forces.
Dr. Cary Adams, head of the Union for International Cancer Control, emphasized that despite advancements in cancer detection and treatment, significant disparities persist not only between high and low-income regions but also within countries. He stressed that access to affordable and quality cancer services should not be determined by one’s geographical location. Dr. Adams called for political will and prioritization of cancer care to ensure that everyone has equal access to life-saving treatments.
The alarming rise in global cancer diagnoses serves as a wake-up call for governments and healthcare organizations worldwide. It is imperative that concerted efforts are made to address the disparities in cancer care and outcomes. By investing in research, prevention strategies, early detection methods, and accessible treatments, we can strive towards a future where cancer is no longer a devastating global burden.
