Humanity celebrates World Cancer Day

Humanity is celebrating World Cancer Day, aiming to raise awareness, and mobilizing society to advance in the prevention and control of this disease.

Data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization (WHO) and a survey conducted in 115 nations, show the growing burden of cancer, the disproportionate impact on unattended populations and the urgent need to address inequities with respect to this disease.

In 2022, 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths were reported, while in most countries there is insufficient funding for cancer care.

Experts estimate that around one in five people will develop cancer in their lifetime, while approximately one in nine men and one in 12 women die from the disease.

The survey showed that only 39% of the participating nations covered basic aspects of cancer management as part of their basic health services funded for all citizens, i.e., health benefit packages.

Also, only 28% also covered care for people in need of palliative care, including pain relief in general and not only cancer-related pain.