The survival rate after a cancer diagnosis is significantly lower in poorer countries than in wealthier ones. Image: keystone
July 8, 2026, 2:52 p.mJuly 8, 2026, 2:53 p.m
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of annual cancer diagnoses worldwide will increase significantly. If no action is taken, 35 million new cancer patients per year can be expected in 2050 compared to 20.6 million in 2024, the WHO said in its new cancer report.
The reasons include deficiencies in prevention and the classic risk factors of smoking, alcohol, lack of exercise and obesity.
When it comes to cancer, many debates revolve around new technologies, new treatments and new hopes, said WHO expert André Ilbawi. But that is not the complete picture when looking at the whole world. “Far too many people are still being left behind.”
Big differences in survival rates
The global differences in the detection and successful treatment of cancer are enormous. When it comes to breast cancer, the survival rate in rich countries is 85 percent and in poorer countries it is around 40 percent. Access to at least minimal treatment is possible in only 39 percent of all countries. “This means that a large proportion of the world’s population does not have access to basic services,” writes the WHO.
«Cancer is a deeply personal disease that affects almost all of us. But whether a person survives cancer should never depend on where they were born or how much they earn,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
92 percent of the population will face cancer at some point in their life
The diagnosis often means very high levels of mental stress for those affected and their relatives, as well as possible financial ruin, it was said. “Cancer is a leading cause of medical bankruptcy,” the report said. More than half of patients and their families are currently facing catastrophic healthcare costs.
According to the WHO, 92 percent of the world’s population will experience cancer at some point in their lives – either as patients or as close family members.
Dangerous trend: obesity and lack of exercise
Certain progress in prevention can be seen when it comes to smoking. Compared to 2010, 27 percent fewer people picked up a cigarette, cigar or pipe. The situation with alcohol has only improved slightly in a long-term comparison. A worsening trend can be seen in obesity and sedentary behavior.
According to statistics, breast, lung, colon and prostate cancer are particularly widespread. The biggest gap is no longer the knowledge about the disease, but the gap “between what we know and what we do”. (sda/dpa)