Global cancer burden growing, amidst mounting need for services

Geneva – The World Health Organization (WHO) ahead of the World Cancer Day, revealed troubling statistics on the escalating global cancer burden. 

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), WHO’s cancer agency, disclosed estimates based on 2022 data, emphasizing the increasing challenges and disparities in addressing cancer worldwide.

In 2022, the world witnessed 20 million new cancer cases, resulting in 9.7 million deaths. Alarmingly, a WHO survey of 115 countries exposes inadequate funding for essential cancer and palliative care services, hindering universal health coverage.

The IARC’s Global Cancer Observatory noted the dominance of ten cancer types, with lung, breast, and colorectal cancers leading in both new cases and deaths. Notably, lung cancer regains its top spot globally, underscoring persistent tobacco use in Asia.

Inequities are stark, especially in breast cancer. Countries with very high Human Development Index (HDI) face a 1 in 12 lifetime diagnosis risk, while low-HDI nations see one in 27 women diagnosed. 

Dr. Isabelle Soerjomataram from IARC emphasizes the urgent need to address late diagnosis and inadequate treatment in lower-HDI countries.

A WHO survey on Health Benefit Packages (HBP) reveals major global disparities in cancer services. High-income countries are 4–7 times more likely to include lung cancer-related services in their HBPs than lower-income nations. The survey emphasizes the critical need for investments to address these global cancer disparities.

Looking ahead, the global cancer burden is expected to soar by 77% in 2050, with over 35 million new cases predicted. The surge indicates the urgent need for global efforts to bridge disparities and ensure access to quality cancer care for all.