The American Cancer Society (ACS) recently conducted a study that predicts a significant increase in cancer cases and deaths among men globally by the year 2050. The study analyzed data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer across 185 countries and territories to assess mortality rates associated with 30 different types of cancer.
According to the findings, it is projected that between 2022 and 2050, men’s cancer cases will surge by approximately 84%, rising from 10.3 million to 19 million. Additionally, male cancer deaths are expected to spike by 93% during that same period, reaching 10.5 million by 2050. The study also highlights that cases are anticipated to more than double among men aged 65 and older, as well as those residing in regions with a low or medium Human Development Index (HDI).
The research also indicates that men were 43% more likely to die from cancer than women in 2020, with a diagnosis rate 19% higher. This could be attributed to men engaging more in modifiable risk factors for cancer, such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Furthermore, men are less likely to undergo regular screenings for male-specific cancers, which can impact early detection and treatment.
The ten cancers with the highest age-standardized mortality rates among men include lung cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, stomach cancer, prostate cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, leukemia, bladder cancer, and cancers of the brain and central nervous system.
To address the increasing burden of cancer among men, the study authors recommend reducing modifiable risk factors, improving access to male-specific screenings, and enhancing health infrastructure and workforce quality. They also emphasize the importance of national and international collaborations, as well as promoting universal health coverage to ensure cancer equity globally.
Despite the valuable insights provided by the study, the researchers acknowledged some limitations, particularly concerning the quality of data from certain countries and territories. Additionally, measures like years of life lost or years lived with disability were not available in the original data, which could impact the accuracy of the estimates.
In conclusion, the projected increase in cancer cases and deaths among men is a concerning trend that requires proactive measures to address. By implementing strategies to reduce modifiable risk factors, enhance screening accessibility, and strengthen healthcare systems, it is possible to mitigate the impact of cancer on men’s health worldwide.