By 2050, the global community is projected to witness a staggering 77 percent increase in cancer cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), WHO’s cancer agency, anticipates over 35 million new cancer cases in just over two decades, marking a substantial surge from the estimated 20 million cases recorded in 2022.
Despite the alarming statistics, Dr Freddie Bray, Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, emphasizes that the impact of this increase “will not be felt evenly across countries.” As we approach World Cancer Day on 4 February, it is crucial for Nagaland to actively participate in global efforts to address this growing health concern.
The report identifies tobacco, alcohol, and obesity as primary factors driving the escalating incidence of cancer, with air pollution mentioned as a key driver of environmental risk factors. The IARC predicts that countries with a high Human Development Index (HDI) will experience the most substantial absolute increase in cancer cases, with an additional 4.8 million new cases projected in 2050 compared to the 2022 estimates.
In 2022, India witnessed a concerning surge in cancer cases, with breast cancer emerging as the most prevalent form of the disease. The report emphasized that globally, one in five individuals develops cancer during their lifetime, with approximately one in nine men and one in twelve women succumbing to the disease.
To address this growing concern, Nagaland must prioritize cancer awareness initiatives. By fostering public awareness about the risk factors, early detection, and available resources for cancer prevention and treatment, we can empower our community to make informed decisions about their health.
Initiatives can include educational campaigns, community workshops, and health check-up camps, specifically tailored to the unique needs of Nagaland. By actively participating in the global fight against cancer, Nagaland can contribute to creating a healthier and more informed society, ensuring that no one faces this formidable health challenge alone.