WHO warns global cancer cases could reach 35 million annually by 2050

The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), has issued a stark warning over the rapidly growing global cancer burden,

GENEVA: The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), has issued a stark warning over the rapidly growing global cancer burden, cautioning that the disease is becoming one of the world’s most serious public health challenges.

According to the latest Global Status Report on Cancer 2026, cancer continues to affect millions of people every year, with health experts warning that nearly one in five people worldwide is expected to develop the disease during their lifetime. The report also highlights that a vast majority of the global population will be impacted by cancer either directly or indirectly at some point in their lives, underlining the immense health, social and economic consequences of the disease.

The report estimates that around 26 million new cancer cases are diagnosed globally each year, while approximately 10 million people die annually from the disease. This translates to more than 26,000 deaths every day, making cancer the second leading cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular diseases.

Health experts project that if current trends continue, the number of new cancer cases could rise to 35 million annually by 2050, representing an increase of more than 40 percent compared to current levels. The anticipated surge is largely attributed to population growth, longer life expectancy, environmental pollution, unhealthy lifestyles, tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, physical inactivity, and certain infectious diseases.

The report also sheds light on the cancer burden in Pakistan, where thousands of families are affected every year. It estimates that between 8,000 and 10,000 Pakistani children are diagnosed with cancer annually. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the country, with more than 30,000 new cases reported every year and over 15,000 deaths linked to the disease.

Cervical cancer has also emerged as a significant public health concern, ranking as the third most common cancer among Pakistani women. Around 5,000 new cervical cancer cases are recorded each year, highlighting the need for expanded screening programmes and greater awareness.

The report warns that cancer outcomes differ dramatically between wealthy and low-income nations due to unequal access to healthcare. In high-income countries, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer reaches 87 percent, while in low-income countries it falls to 42 percent. Similarly, more than 80 percent of children diagnosed with cancer survive in developed nations, compared to less than 30 percent in poorer countries where access to specialized treatment remains limited.

Experts noted that many low-income countries continue to struggle with shortages of essential cancer medicines, diagnostic services and radiotherapy facilities, preventing patients from receiving timely and effective treatment.

Beyond its medical impact, the report emphasizes that cancer has evolved into a major economic and social challenge. Nearly 45 percent of cancer patients experience severe financial hardship due to treatment costs, while more than half also face mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, placing additional pressure on families and healthcare systems.

WHO officials stressed that early diagnosis, improved screening programmes, stronger health infrastructure and greater investment in prevention remain the most effective strategies to reduce cancer-related deaths. They urged governments worldwide to strengthen cancer control policies, improve access to affordable treatment and expand awareness campaigns aimed at reducing preventable risk factors.