Worldwide cancer deaths could increase by 90% by 2050

Worldwide cancer rates and deaths are projected to increase by 77% and 90% respectively by 2050, according to Australian and international researchers who say lower-income countries will be hardest hit.

The team used data on 36 cancer types across 185 countries to project how incidence rates and deaths will change over the coming decades. They say a tripling of cancer cases and subsequent deaths in low- and middle-income countries will drive the rise, while higher-income countries will still see an increase in cancer, albeit much smaller.

Looking at 2022 data, the researchers say Australia has the highest cancer survival rate among high-income countries, and other countries could reduce their cancer death rates in the future by emulating aspects of the Australian healthcare system.