New cancer cases are predicted to soar by 77 percent by the year 2050, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The organization’s cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), conducted a survey and identified tobacco, alcohol, obesity, and air pollution as the key factors contributing to the rising numbers.
The IARC stated that over 35 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2050, a significant increase from the approximately 20 million cases recorded in 2022. Freddie Bray, the head of cancer surveillance at the IARC, emphasized the magnitude of the cancer burden, highlighting the growing crisis that lies ahead.
In 2022 alone, there were approximately 9.7 million cancer-related deaths worldwide, according to the IARC’s biannual report. The report, based on data from 185 countries and 36 cancers, revealed that around one in five individuals develop cancer during their lifetime. Additionally, one in nine men and one in twelve women succumb to the disease.
The increasing global cancer burden can be attributed to several factors, including population aging, population growth, and changes in individuals’ exposure to risk factors. The IARC identified tobacco, alcohol, and obesity as major factors contributing to the growing incidence of cancer, with air pollution remaining a significant environmental risk factor.
The threat of cancer varies depending on the location of the patient. The most developed countries are projected to experience the greatest increases in the number of cases, with an estimated additional 4.8 million new cases in 2050 compared to 2022. However, in terms of percentages, countries with lower Human Development Index (HDI) scores, indicating lower socioeconomic development, will witness the most substantial proportional increase, with a predicted 142 percent rise. Countries in the medium range can expect a 99 percent increase.
Bray expressed concern about the significant burden faced by lower-income countries that are ill-equipped to handle the growing cancer problem. He stressed the need for increased investment in early diagnosis, cancer screening, disease prevention, and palliative care.
Although there are more than 100 different types of cancer, the top five cancers account for approximately 50 percent of cases. Lung cancer is the most prevalent worldwide, particularly among men, while breast cancer is most common among women. The IARC noted that changing lifestyles have led to an increase in different types of cancers. For example, colorectal cancer has become the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, alcohol use, and age play a role in its prevalence.
To address the rising cancer rates, the IARC emphasized the importance of investing in early diagnosis, screening, prevention, and palliative care. The organization highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the growing burden of cancer worldwide.
The predictions provided by the IARC serve as a call to action for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and individuals to prioritize cancer prevention and control strategies. By addressing risk factors and investing in research, early detection, and treatment, we can work towards mitigating the impact of cancer and reducing its devastating consequences on individuals and societies worldwide.
