A recent report published by The Lancet medical journal predicts a significant increase in the number of cancer cases and deaths worldwide by 2050, including in Canada. The study emphasizes the importance of healthcare systems preparing to address the rising burden of cancer to prevent avoidable deaths and reduce healthcare costs.
In 2023, there were 18.5 million new cancer cases globally, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers. By 2050, this number is projected to reach 30.5 million. Additionally, cancer deaths are expected to rise from 10.4 million in 2023 to 18.6 million in 2050, marking a 75% increase in cancer-related deaths since 2024.
The report highlights that lung, colorectal, and stomach cancers are among the leading causes of cancer mortality globally. The surge in cancer cases is attributed to aging populations and demographic growth, particularly in high-income countries like Canada.
Ali Mokdad, a professor at the University of Washington, notes that the rise in cancer cases in Canada is primarily due to the aging population rather than an actual increase in cancer incidence. He mentions that Canada’s universal healthcare system has enabled early cancer detection, contributing to better outcomes compared to countries with limited healthcare access.
The study underscores modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use and poor diet, which are responsible for a significant portion of cancer deaths worldwide. It also highlights disparities in cancer outcomes between high-income and low/middle-income countries, emphasizing the need for improved cancer screening and treatment infrastructure in less developed regions.
In light of the projected increase in cancer cases, healthcare systems, including those in Canada, must enhance cancer screening programs and expand treatment capacities to meet growing demand. Failure to adequately prepare could lead to delayed diagnoses, ineffective treatments, and higher healthcare costs associated with advanced-stage cancers.
Dr. Keith Stewart from the Princess Margaret Cancer Care Network in Toronto acknowledges the strain on healthcare facilities due to the rising number of cancer patients. He stresses the importance of proactive planning to address the anticipated surge in cancer cases, emphasizing the need for more resources, improved patient care systems, and support for long-term cancer survivors.
Anticipating the challenges posed by an aging population and increasing cancer rates, hospitals must adopt comprehensive strategies to accommodate more patients, enhance care delivery, and ensure sustainable healthcare services for both current and future cancer patients.