Global cancer cases will jump 77% by 2050, WHO report estimates

The WHO's new report anticipates a significant increase in global cancer cases by 2050, projecting 35 million diagnoses, a 77% rise from 2022. Key drivers include lifestyle and environmental factors, such as obesity, tobacco use, and air pollution. The report also highlights considerable disparities in cancer outcomes based on geographic and economic factors, with more developed countries showing better survival rates due to advanced healthcare systems and early detection.

In less developed regions, however, the situation is more dire due to limited access to early diagnosis and effective treatments. Breast cancer, for instance, has a higher diagnosis rate but lower mortality in high-income countries compared to low-income regions. This disparity is attributed to differences in healthcare quality, access, and affordability.

The report also notes a concerning trend of increasing cancer incidence among younger populations, especially for certain types like colorectal cancer. This shift necessitates a global effort to address healthcare inequities and improve access to cancer care, underscoring the need for political commitment and investment in healthcare infrastructure worldwide.