WHO report highlights growing global cancer burden and inequalities in care

The World Health Organization (WHO) has published its Global Status Report on Cancer 2026, warning that annual cancer cases could rise from an estimated 20.6 million in 2024 to almost 35 million by 2050 if current trends continue. The report identifies population growth and ageing as the main factors driving the projected increase.

The report examines global progress in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care, while highlighting significant inequalities in access to services. According to the WHO, many low- and lower-middle-income countries continue to face limited access to cancer medicines, radiotherapy and diagnostic services, contributing to poorer outcomes for patients.

The WHO also reports substantial differences in cancer survival between countries. For example, survival rates for some cancers, including breast cancer, remain significantly higher in high-income countries than in lower-income settings, where access to timely diagnosis and treatment is often more limited.

While the report notes progress in areas such as tobacco control and national cancer planning, it concludes that further action is needed to improve equitable access to prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and palliative care. The WHO is calling on countries to strengthen cancer services as part of wider efforts to achieve universal health coverage.

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