GUWAHATI: The World Health Organization (WHO) has projected an alarming 85% increase in cancer cases and related deaths across the South-East Asia region by 2050. This was revealed by the agency prior to the occasion of World Cancer Day on Tuesday, February 4.
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In 2022, South-East Asia recorded 2.4 million new cancer cases, including 56,000 in children, and 1.5 million cancer-related deaths. The region reported the highest incidence globally of cancers affecting the lips, oral cavity, uterine cervix, and childhood cancers.
WHO’s Regional Director for South-East Asia, Saima Wazed, highlighted these figures while emphasising the theme of this year’s World Cancer Day, “United by Unique,” which focuses on collective efforts to combat cancer.
Despite the grim forecast, Wazed also acknowledged progress made in cancer prevention and control across the region. Six countries have established national cancer control plans, while two have integrated cancer prevention into their national non-communicable disease (NCD) strategies. A decline in tobacco consumption—one of the leading causes of cancer—has also been noted in several countries.
Additionally, vaccination efforts against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a major cause of cervical cancer, are gaining traction, with eight countries implementing nationwide programs. 10 countries are also engaged in global initiatives targeting childhood cancers, and seven countries have operational population-based cancer registries. Tertiary-level cancer care is today accessible to many patients in 10 countries.
However, significant challenges persist. For instance, cancer control programs often lack coordination and are not always aligned with evidence-based practices, leading to inconsistent implementation. Also, policies targeting cancer-causing substances like areca nut—a common carcinogen in the region—remain inadequate.
Another hindrance is that prevention strategies are not fully enforced, contributing to millions of avoidable cases.