Breast cancer remains a significant global health concern, with cases expected to rise by 38% and deaths by 68% over the next 25 years, according to a recent analysis by international scientists. In the United States alone, cases are projected to increase from nearly 275,000 in 2022 to over 350,000 by 2050, with deaths rising from around 43,000 to nearly 64,000 during the same period.
Various factors such as age, family history, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle choices can influence an individual’s risk of developing breast cancer. As populations continue to grow and age, the incidence of breast cancer is expected to increase globally.
The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer predicts around 3.2 million new cases and 1.1 million deaths from breast cancer annually by 2050, with lower-income countries bearing a disproportionate burden. While countries like Australia, New Zealand, Northern Europe, and Northern America currently have high diagnosis rates, regions like Melanesia, Polynesia, and Western Africa have the highest mortality rates.
A concerning disparity exists between developed and developing countries in terms of breast cancer outcomes, with over half of women diagnosed in the least developed nations succumbing to the disease compared to only 17% in the most developed countries. This discrepancy is attributed to disparities in early diagnosis, screening programs, and comprehensive management of breast cancer.
Despite a decrease in the proportion of breast cancer-related deaths in several countries between 2008 and 2017, the reduction rate falls short of the WHO’s target of 2.5% per year. Only seven countries met this target, while four of the seven countries experiencing an increase in breast cancer mortality were among the least developed nations.
Improving cancer data collection and accuracy in less developed countries is crucial to addressing the rising incidence of breast cancer in these regions. Dr. Isabelle Soerjomataram, Deputy Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, emphasized the need for enhanced early diagnosis and treatment access to bridge the global gap in breast cancer outcomes.
The urgent call for better cancer data and improved access to treatment underscores the importance of addressing breast cancer on a global scale. By working towards reducing suffering and mortality from breast cancer in all countries, we can strive towards a future where this disease no longer poses a significant threat to women worldwide.
