GUWAHATI: Cancer remains the world's second leading cause of death, claiming nearly 10 million lives annually and recording 20.6 million new cases each year, according to the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Status Report on Cancer 2026. The report warns that without urgent action, annual cancer cases could rise to almost 35 million by 2050.
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The report highlights stark global inequalities in cancer care. While 87% of women with breast cancer survive at least five years after diagnosis in high-income countries, the survival rate falls to around 42% in low-income countries. It also notes that fewer than one in three countries include cancer care under universal health coverage.
Beyond its health impact, cancer is placing a heavy burden on families. WHO's first global survey of people affected by cancer found that 45% face financial hardship, more than half experience mental health challenges, and most caregivers report stress and social isolation.
The report says nearly four in ten cancer cases are linked to preventable risk factors, including tobacco use, alcohol, obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, air pollution, and infections such as HPV and hepatitis.
While progress has been made through stronger tobacco control, vaccination programmes and national cancer policies, WHO says access to diagnosis, treatment and essential medicines remains unequal, particularly in low-income countries.
Calling for a people-centred approach, the WHO has urged governments to strengthen cancer prevention, improve access to affordable care, and provide better support for patients and their families to reduce the growing global burden of the disease.