WHO warned that, if current trends continue, the world will see a 60 per cent increase in cancer cases over the next two decades. The greatest increase in new cases will occur in low- and middle-income countries, where survival rates are currently lowest.
“This is a wake-up call to all of us to tackle the unacceptable inequalities between cancer services in rich and poor countries,” said Dr. Ren Minghui, Assistant Director-General, Universal Health Coverage/ Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization. “If people have access to primary care and referral systems then cancer can be detected early, treated effectively and cured. Cancer should not be a death sentence for anyone, anywhere.
WHO highlighted a wide range of proven interventions to prevent new cancer cases. These include controlling tobacco use , vaccinating against hepatitis B to prevent liver cancer, eliminating cervical cancer by vaccinating against HPV, screening and treatment, implementing high-impact cancer management interventions that bring value for money and ensuring access to palliative care including pain relief.