WHO report warns of widening cancer care inequities globally
9 reported
A new World Health Organization report warns that scientific progress against cancer has done little for millions of patients worldwide, who face severe physical, emotional and financial consequences after diagnosis. The WHO estimates one in five people will develop cancer, and the disease will touch 92% of people through their own diagnosis or that of a close family member. The report found "persistent and widening" inequities in access to prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care. Currently, there are an estimated 20.6 million cancer cases and 10 million deaths annually, with projections rising to nearly 35 million cases by 2050. In richer countries, 85% of those diagnosed with breast or childhood cancers survive at least five years, compared to less than 30% in poorer countries. The report also notes successes, including a credible path to eliminating cervical cancer and a downward trend in tobacco use, and calls on governments to fund cancer services from prevention through treatment.
What’s reported
One in five people will develop cancer, and 92% of people will be touched by the disease through their own diagnosis or that of a close family member.
There are an estimated 20.6 million cancer cases and 10 million deaths per year, projected to rise to nearly 35 million cases by 2050.
In richer countries, 85% of those diagnosed with breast or childhood cancers survive at least five years, compared to less than 30% in poorer countries.
In low- and lower-middle income countries, between 9% and 54% of the WHO’s top-20 priority cancer drugs are available, versus 68% to 94% in high-income countries.
23 countries have no radiation facilities.
Two-thirds of countries do not cover cancer in universal health coverage packages, and high costs lead up to 90% of patients in some settings to abandon treatment.
A global survey found widespread financial hardship, mental health challenges and strain on caregivers.
The report highlights successes including a credible path to eliminating cervical cancer and a downward trend in tobacco use.
Most countries now have national cancer action plans.
Key figures
Dr Andre Ilbawi, team lead for cancer control at the WHO
Abigail Simon-Hart, breast cancer survivor and patient advocate from Nigeria
Dr Isabelle Soerjomataram, deputy head of the International Agency for Research on Cancer’s surveillance unit
Sources: The Guardian
