Cancer in Southern, Eastern, and Southeast Asia

Southern, Eastern, and Southeast Asia are some of the most densely populated regions globally, with over 4.3 billion people (55% of the world population). The region contributes 49% of all new cancer cases (9.2 million) and 53% of cancer deaths (5.1 million) worldwide each year. China and India combined account for two-thirds of these cases and deaths. Lung (1,496,400 new cases), colorectal (915,800 cases), and female breast cancer (910,200 cases) are the most common cancers for both sexes combined, with lung cancer also being the leading cause of cancer deaths (1,079,100 deaths), followed by liver cancer (516,700) and stomach cancer (437,900) (Figure 26.1).

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in 10 of 25 countries in the region, both sexes combined, and lung cancer leads in terms of cancer-specific mortality in 14 countries (Map 26.1).

The risk of developing cancer increases with the Human Development Index (HDI) level, with incidence in very high HDI countries twice that of low HDI countries (227 versus 103 per 100,000), but mortality rates vary less (Figure 26.2). Five-year survival for cancers, such as breast, stomach, and lung, are higher in high-HDI countries like South Korea, compared to medium-HDI countries like India.

While lung cancer incidence has declined in some countries, it is still rising in nations with high smoking prevalence, such as China and India. Similarly, colorectal cancer incidence is also increasing, likely driven by sedentary lifestyles and higher intake of animal-source foods. Infection-related cancers (including stomach, liver, and cervix) have generally decreased, except for slight increases in cervical cancer in China and Japan.

Assuming constant incidence and mortality rates, over 16 million new cancer cases and 10 million deaths are predicted to occur in 2050 in the region as a result of population growth and aging. Lung, colorectal, breast, stomach, and liver cancers will have the highest burden (Figure 26.3).