2024 | Natia Jokhadze MD, Arunangshu Das MBBS, Don S. Dizon MD
The 2022 global cancer statistics report highlights that 20 million people will be diagnosed with cancer, and nearly 10 million will die. These figures are based on data from the Global Cancer Observatory, which uses the best available sources of cancer incidence and mortality. Population-based cancer survival is a key indicator of health system effectiveness. However, the data's accuracy is limited by the lack of sufficient data in many countries, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where only 1% of African countries and 4% of Asian, South American, and Central American countries have adequate data. This can lead to underestimation of cancer burden. The report also notes that cancer trends by age at diagnosis may vary across countries, with high Human Development Index (HDI) countries showing increased colorectal cancer diagnoses in younger people. In Bangladesh, cancer data is based on hospital-level registries, potentially missing those without access to specialized care. In Georgia, a nationwide cancer registry was established, improving data collection and linking to national mortality records. Despite progress, access to effective cancer prevention and screening remains unequal globally. Smoking remains a major risk factor, and while Georgia has implemented tobacco control measures, the tobacco industry still poses challenges. Early detection efforts, such as mammographic screening, face low uptake in some regions. Prevention efforts, including HPV and hepatitis B vaccines, have shown success in Georgia, but challenges remain. In LMICs, access to modern cancer treatments is limited, with financial barriers affecting treatment availability. International partnerships can help improve access, but drug availability remains a challenge. In Bangladesh, in-country production of biosimilar drugs could improve cancer care. The report emphasizes the need for coordinated data collection and global equity in cancer screening, treatment, and care. Cancer is a global issue affecting all countries, and a healthier population is the goal.The 2022 global cancer statistics report highlights that 20 million people will be diagnosed with cancer, and nearly 10 million will die. These figures are based on data from the Global Cancer Observatory, which uses the best available sources of cancer incidence and mortality. Population-based cancer survival is a key indicator of health system effectiveness. However, the data's accuracy is limited by the lack of sufficient data in many countries, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where only 1% of African countries and 4% of Asian, South American, and Central American countries have adequate data. This can lead to underestimation of cancer burden. The report also notes that cancer trends by age at diagnosis may vary across countries, with high Human Development Index (HDI) countries showing increased colorectal cancer diagnoses in younger people. In Bangladesh, cancer data is based on hospital-level registries, potentially missing those without access to specialized care. In Georgia, a nationwide cancer registry was established, improving data collection and linking to national mortality records. Despite progress, access to effective cancer prevention and screening remains unequal globally. Smoking remains a major risk factor, and while Georgia has implemented tobacco control measures, the tobacco industry still poses challenges. Early detection efforts, such as mammographic screening, face low uptake in some regions. Prevention efforts, including HPV and hepatitis B vaccines, have shown success in Georgia, but challenges remain. In LMICs, access to modern cancer treatments is limited, with financial barriers affecting treatment availability. International partnerships can help improve access, but drug availability remains a challenge. In Bangladesh, in-country production of biosimilar drugs could improve cancer care. The report emphasizes the need for coordinated data collection and global equity in cancer screening, treatment, and care. Cancer is a global issue affecting all countries, and a healthier population is the goal.