A recent analysis by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has revealed a concerning trend: it is projected that by 2050, the incidence of breast cancer and related deaths will rise significantly, disproportionately affecting lower-income countries. These findings threaten the lives of tens of millions of women worldwide, as reported by HealthDay.
According to the authors of the study published in the journal Nature Medicine, if current trends continue, by mid-century there will be 3.2 million new cases of breast cancer and 1.1 million deaths each year.
This anticipated increase is attributed to factors such as population growth, aging, and disparities in healthcare access. While high-income countries often have effective screening programs that allow for early disease detection, many countries with low Human Development Index (HDI) face challenges in early diagnosis and treatment availability. Dr. Joanna Kim, a researcher at IARC and co-author of the report, emphasized: "Every minute, four women are diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide, and one woman dies from this disease, and this statistic is worsening."
The IARC study highlights that although higher incidence rates are observed in countries with high HDI—partly due to better diagnostics and lifestyle factors—the mortality rates are disproportionately higher in low HDI countries. This inequality underscores the urgent need to improve healthcare infrastructure and access in less developed regions.
The global initiative by the World Health Organization to combat breast cancer aims to reduce mortality from the disease by 2.5% annually; however, achieving this goal requires coordinated efforts in prevention, early detection, and treatment, particularly in developing countries.
Preventive measures can play a crucial role in mitigating this trend. Researchers believe that approximately a quarter of breast cancer cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, increasing physical activity, and promoting breastfeeding. These measures, combined with policy changes and sustained investments in healthcare systems, are essential to address the growing global threat of breast cancer.
Overall, the projected increase in breast cancer cases and deaths by 2050 calls for immediate and consistent global action, the authors stated. Addressing healthcare inequality, enhancing early detection, and implementing effective prevention strategies are vital steps toward reducing the impact of this disease worldwide.
Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict it. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For a diagnosis, please consult a physician.