The WHO is calling for urgent action as the number of new cancer cases is predicted to almost double by 2050

The burden of cancer varies considerably from region to region. In 2024, Asia accounted for the largest share, with more than half of all cancer cases (50.7%) and deaths (56.5%), reflecting the large population. Europe bore a disproportionately large burden, contributing 21% of global cases and 20% of deaths despite having only about 9% of the world’s population. In contrast, many countries in Africa and parts of Asia have lower incidence but disproportionately high mortality.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Lung, prostate and colon cancer are among the most common cancers in men, while breast, lung and colorectal cancer represent a significant share of the burden in women.

Nearly four out of ten cancer cases worldwide are linked to preventable risk factors, particularly infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C and helicobacter pylori, alcohol, tobacco use, high body mass index and insufficient physical activity, highlighting the key role of prevention.

“Although we are seeing a reduction in some cancer rates in countries that have implemented prevention policies, progress has been too slow,” said Dr. Elisabete Weiderpass, director of the World Health Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). “The profile of cancer is evolving, increasingly driven by rising rates of obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets and air pollution. Cancer prevention must remain a political priority.”

Big gains, but gaps still exist

The report notes significant developments in key policy areas. Tobacco use has decreased by 27% since 2010, contributing to a decrease in lung cancer cases and deaths in some regions. Infection-related cancers are also declining thanks to expanded vaccination coverage and improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), as well as infection prevention and control.

Political commitment has strengthened, with 82% of countries now having national cancer control plans, up from 50% in 2010. In high-income countries, early detection programs catch most breast cancers and 74% of women are screened for cervical cancer. Scientific innovation is accelerating; registered clinical trials grew at an annual rate of 7.3% between 2005 and 2021.

However, these advances are not being translated into life-saving actions at the required pace. Essential cancer drugs remain unaffordable for many: availability of 20 priority cancer drugs ranges from only 9% to 54% in low- and lower-middle-income countries, compared with 68% to 94% in high-income countries. And the consequences of these gaps are most acutely felt by people living with cancer and their families.

“Cancer is not just a medical diagnosis – it profoundly, infinitely affects every aspect of a person’s life, as well as their family’s,” said Clarissa Schilstra, a childhood cancer survivor and leader of the WHO survey. “We urge policymakers to meaningfully engage with people affected by cancer. By sharing our lived experiences, we can inform more just, effective solutions to protect and promote the lives and well-being of future generations.”

Moving toward a human-centered cancer control program

The report represents an important opportunity to put people with cancer at the center of cancer control efforts. It calls on governments, international organizations, civil society, academic institutions, the private sector and WHO to work together to provide a holistic, people-centred approach to the care of individuals and families affected by cancer.

To support this vision, the report outlines seven key recommendations and three strategic changes to be implemented in all countries and communities:

• Better options: Integrate cancer control into universal health coverage and invest in human capital for cancer prevention and control;
• Better protection: Place people with lived experience at the center of the cancer system while strengthening social protection; and
• Better value: Align research and innovation with public health needs and ensure equitable access to valued advances in care.

The choices made and actions taken today will shape the burden of cancer that will be carried by future generations. By adopting a people-centred approach, making strategic and sustainable investments and maintaining an unwavering commitment to equity, countries can reduce the burden of cancer and improve outcomes for everyone, everywhere.

Editor’s note

The latest global cancer estimates are produced by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and are available through IARC’s Global Cancer Observatory (GCO). The GCO provides the most recent estimates of cancer incidence and mortality worldwide, covering 36 cancer types in 186 countries and territories. More information: Global Cancer Observatory (GCO), interactive web platform (IARC database).

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