Cancer cases, deaths among men predicted to rise 93% by 2050: Study

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Cancer Society highlights a concerning global trend, a significant rise in cancer cases and deaths among men by 2050. The research predicts an 84% increase in cancer diagnoses and a staggering 93% rise in cancer-related deaths among men worldwide between 2022 and 2050.

The study emphasises that countries with lower income levels and shorter life expectancies will likely experience the most significant increases. For instance, regions such as Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean are projected to see a 2.5-fold increase in both cancer cases and deaths. In contrast, Europe is expected to witness a more modest rise, with a projected growth of about one-half.

The study's authors attribute the higher risk among men to lifestyle factors such as higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption compared to women. Additionally, men are less likely to undergo regular cancer screenings and are often exposed to carcinogens in their workplaces, further heightening their risk.

By 2050 lung cancer is expected to remain the leading cause of global cancer mortality with an increase of its cases by 87% relative to 2022. Moreover, prostate as well as colorectal cancers are also expected to contribute significantly to the rise in cancer cases and fatalities among men.

Lung cancer, the most common cancer worldwide, originates in the lungs and is strongly linked to smoking and exposure to harmful substances. Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland in men, typically occurring in older age, and can lead to significant health issues if untreated. Colorectal cancer, which begins in the colon or rectum, is associated with dietary habits, age, and genetics. These three cancers are expected to be the primary drivers of the increase in cancer cases and deaths among men by 2050.