Breast cancer diagnoses and fatalities are projected to surge worldwide by 2050, according to recent findings from the World Health Organization (WHO). The report highlights a significant increase in both diagnosis and death rates, with the highest incidences currently observed in Australia, New Zealand, North America, and northern Europe. Conversely, the lowest rates have been recorded in Asia and Africa. This global trend underscores the urgent need for comprehensive action to combat the growing burden of breast cancer.
The report anticipates that globally, one in 20 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. By 2050, there will be an estimated 3.2 million new cases and 1.1 million deaths annually if current trends persist. In the United Kingdom alone, cases are expected to rise by 21%, from 58,756 cases in 2022 to 71,006 cases per year in 2050. Concurrently, deaths are projected to jump by 42%, from 12,122 in 2022 to 17,261 in 2050.
"Every minute, four women are diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide and one woman dies from the disease, and these statistics are worsening," said Dr. Joanne Kim.
The increase in breast cancer cases and deaths over the next 25 years is projected at 38% and 68%, respectively. Most cases and fatalities occur in women aged 50 and above, who account for 71% of new cases and 79% of deaths. Notably, while mortality rates have decreased in 29 of 46 countries analyzed, death rates remain highest in regions such as Melanesia, Polynesia, and West Africa.
Over the last decade, incidence rates have grown by 1% to 5% annually in 27 of the 50 countries studied. Despite these alarming trends, the report also emphasizes that approximately a quarter of breast cancer cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and increasing physical activity.
"Continued progress in early diagnosis and improved access to treatment are essential to address the global gap in breast cancer and ensure that the goal of reducing suffering and death from breast cancer is achieved by all countries worldwide," stated Dr. Isabelle Soerjomataram.
Dr. Soerjomataram further noted, "Countries can mitigate or reverse these trends by adopting primary prevention policies … and by investing in early detection and treatment."