The burden of cancer is substantial in every country worldwide, regardless of level of development.
Cancer occurrence varies worldwide and within each of the major world regions, as well as by Human Development Index. Disparities in cancer survival and survivorship persist, while the financial burden of cancer is significant around the globe. Indigenous populations face additional challenges.
Each year, about 270,000 cancer cases are diagnosed in children. Today, five-year survival from childhood cancer in the highest HDI countries is greater than 80%, but it can be as low as 20% in lower HDI countries.
Cancer in ChildrenACCESS CREATES PROGRESS
1 million children's lives could be saved over a decade if childhood cancer survival can be increased to 60% in lower-income countries through interventions to improve early diagnosis and adherence to appropriate treatment.
Considering both sexes together, either female breast, prostate, or cervical cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in over 70% of countries.
Explore DataProstate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in 106 countries worldwide.
Geographic DiversityEach year, more than 2 million women are diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer, yet where a woman lives largely determines whether she will develop one of these cancers, have access to timely and effective diagnostic and treatment services, and ultimately survive.
Based on population growth and aging, the global cancer burden will grow to 29.4 million cases annually in 2040 (assuming global rates in 2018 remain unchanged).
The Burden of Cancer