In a startling revelation, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a report estimating that global cancer diagnoses are set to soar by 77% by the year 2050. According to the data provided by WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, the anticipated surge would result in 35 million new cancer cases in 2050, a sharp increase from the 20 million cases diagnosed in 2022.
Lung Cancer Dominates, Highlighting Alarming Fatality Rates
The comprehensive report covers 185 countries and analyzes 36 different forms of cancer. Among the findings, lung cancer emerged as the most prevalent type worldwide in 2022, contributing to 2.5 million cases, or 12.4% of the total. Alarmingly, lung cancer also claimed the highest number of lives, with 1.8 million deaths accounting for nearly 19% of the total global cancer-related fatalities.
Breast Cancer Disparities Across Developed Nations
The report highlighted significant disparities in cancer burden, especially across developed nations. Breast cancer stood out as a major concern in countries with a very high Human Development Index (HDI), such as access to health, education, and standard of living. In high-HDI nations, 1 in 12 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer, compared to 1 in 27 in low-HDI countries. However, the mortality rates in low-HDI countries were higher due to late diagnosis and limited access to treatments.
Inequities in Cancer Services Demand Urgent Attention
Notably, inequities were also evident in cancer services, including radiation and stem cell transplants. Dr. Bente Mikkelsen, Director of WHO’s Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, emphasized the urgent need for major investments to address global inequities in cancer outcomes. “WHO, including through its cancer initiatives, is working intensively with more than 75 governments to develop, finance, and implement policies to promote cancer care for all,” Dr. Mikkelsen stated.
Drivers of the Cancer Cases Surge: Obesity, Tobacco, Alcohol, and Environmental Factors
The anticipated surge in cancer cases is attributed to several factors, including obesity, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and environmental factors like air pollution. These contributors are driving an alarming increase in cancer rates, raising concerns globally.
Mixed Trends in the United States: Progress and Persistent Disparities
In the United States, recent data from the American Cancer Society revealed a decline in cancer deaths from 1991 to 2021, primarily attributed to reduced tobacco use, improved early detection, and advancements in treatments. However, the report also highlighted persistent racial disparities in cancer risks, with people of color facing higher risks.
Rising Cancer Rates Among Younger Individuals
Another concerning trend noted in the American Cancer Society report is the increasing prevalence of cancer among younger individuals. Colorectal cancer diagnoses in adults under 55, for example, rose from 11% in 1995 to 20% in 2019, indicating a shift in the demographic affected by the disease.
Biden’s Cancer Moonshot: A Multifaceted Approach
President Joe Biden’s commitment to combating cancer is evident through initiatives like the Cancer Moonshot, which aims to reduce U.S. cancer deaths by half within 25 years. Collaborating with agencies such as NASA and the Environmental Protection Agency, the administration seeks to address the multifaceted challenges posed by cancer, including disparities in treatment outcomes.
Addressing Disparities Requires Political Will
Dr. Cary Adams, Head of the Union for International Cancer Control, emphasized the need for political will to address the disparities in cancer care outcomes. “Where someone lives should not determine whether they live,” Dr. Adams stated, calling for prioritized efforts and accessible, quality services for all. The global community faces a critical juncture in the fight against cancer, requiring concerted efforts to mitigate the anticipated surge and ensure equitable access to care worldwide.
Disclaimer Statement: This information is from a third-party health news channel. The opinions expressed here belong to the respective authors/entities and do not reflect the views of Docquity. Docquity does not assure, endorse, or vouch for any of the content and bears no responsibility for it in any way. It is essential to take all necessary steps to ensure the information and content provided are accurate, current, and verified. Docquity disclaims any express or implied warranties related to the report and its contents.
Reference
Global cancer cases will jump 77% by 2050, WHO report estimates [Internet]. Accessed on February 05, 2024. Available from: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/02/health/who-cancer-estimates?cid=ios_app
About Docquity
If you need more confidence and insights to boost careers in healthcare, expanding the network to other healthcare professionals to practice peer-to-peer learning might be the answer. One way to do it is by joining a social platform for healthcare professionals, such as Docquity.
Docquity is an AI-based state-of-the-art private & secure continual learning network of verified doctors, bringing you real-time knowledge from thousands of doctors worldwide. Today, Docquity has over 400,000 doctors spread across six countries in Asia. Meet experts and trusted peers across Asia where you can safely discuss clinical cases, get up-to-date insights from webinars and research journals, and earn CME/CPD credits through certified courses from Docquity Academy. All with the ease of a mobile app available on Android & iOS platforms!
