A recent Lancet report predicts a significant surge in new prostate cancer cases worldwide over the next two decades, with poorer nations catching up with the aging trend seen in wealthier countries.
According to the medical journal, the number of annual new cases is projected to escalate from 1.4 million in 2020 to 2.9 million by 2040. This forecast is based on a comprehensive study of demographic shifts.
“Our findings suggest that the number of new cases annually will rise from 1.4 million in 2020 to 2.9 million by 2040,” stated the report’s authors, highlighting the global trajectory of prostate cancer incidence.
Attributed to increased life expectancy and changes in age demographics worldwide, prostate cancer, which currently accounts for about 15% of all cancer cases among men, is expected to become even more prevalent.
The report underscores the importance of addressing this impending rise, noting that unlike diseases such as lung cancer or heart disease, which can be influenced by public health policies, prostate cancer’s prevalence is less controllable due to hereditary factors.
“Hereditary factors are much less manageable than, for example, smoking is in the cause of lung cancer,” explained researchers. While a correlation with weight has been established, it remains uncertain if this directly causes prostate cancer.
Moreover, researchers emphasize the need for enhanced screening efforts in developing countries, where the disease often goes undetected until it’s too late for effective treatment.
“Health authorities must encourage earlier screening in developing countries,” urged the report’s authors, stressing the critical role of timely detection in combating the disease’s impact globally.
As the global healthcare landscape braces for this impending surge in prostate cancer cases, proactive measures in screening and public health awareness are crucial to mitigating its impact on populations worldwide.