In a recent study published in the journal Cancer, researchers from Australia have projected a surge in cancer cases and deaths among men by 2050, particularly among those 65 and older. The study analyzed data from 30 types of cancer in 185 countries and territories in 2022 to make these projections.
The study predicts that overall cancer cases among men will increase from 10.3 million in 2022 to 19 million in 2050, an 84% increase. Similarly, cancer deaths are projected to rise from 5.4 million in 2022 to 10.5 million in 2050, an increase of 93%. Deaths among men 65 and older are expected to increase by 117%.
According to the researchers, countries with lower income and life expectancy are likely to see larger increases in cancer deaths among men. The study highlights that between 2022 and 2050, Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean may experience a 2.5-fold increase in incident cases and deaths, while Europe is projected to see an increase of about half.
Men are already at higher risk of dying from cancer compared to women due to factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure to carcinogens in the workplace, and lower access to screening programs.
The leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths among men in 2050 is projected to be lung cancer, just as it was in 2022. Mesothelioma and prostate cancer are expected to have the highest increases in cases and deaths, respectively, by 2050.
The researchers emphasize the need for stronger health access and infrastructure, including a sufficient workforce, to improve cancer outcomes and prepare for the anticipated increase in cases by 2050. Expanding universal health coverage globally could enhance basic cancer care options, especially in low-income countries facing poor cancer outcomes and limited universal health coverage.
Earlier this year, a report by the American Cancer Society highlighted that population growth and aging are significant drivers of the world’s cancer burden, with the global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 from about 8 billion in 2022.
Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer for the American Cancer Society, warned that the number of cancer cases globally could reach 35 million by 2050 due to the aging population and lifestyle factors like tobacco use and obesity. This trend is particularly concerning for low-income countries.
CNN’s Jacqueline Howard contributed to this report.
