Global cancer deaths among men expected to surge up to 93% by 2050, study reveals

Improved access to screening and treatment crucial to combating rising cancer deaths in men

A recent study published in the American Cancer Society's peer-reviewed journal, Cancer, projects a significant increase in cancer cases and deaths among men worldwide by 2050.

According to the research, cancer deaths among men are predicted to rise by 93%, with cancer cases expected to increase by 84% between 2022 and 2050.

The study highlights that these alarming increases will be more pronounced among men aged 65 and older, particularly in countries and territories with low to medium human development indices.

The Global Cancer Observatory data was used to analyze over 30 types of cancer across 185 countries and territories, providing demographic projections that reveal this concerning trend.

CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook noted that the study's findings translate to approximately 5 million more cancer deaths per year in men by 2050, compared to current figures.

This follows earlier predictions by the World Health Organization, which estimated that global cancer cases would rise by 77%, reaching over 35 million by 2050.

The study attributes the projected increase in cancer cases to several factors, including population aging, growth, and changes in exposure to risk factors like air pollution.

Tobacco, alcohol use, and obesity were also identified as significant contributors. The researchers emphasised that smoking remains the most critical modifiable risk factor.

Furthermore, the study suggests that men face higher cancer rates due to lower participation in prevention activities and underutilization of screening and treatment options.

Improving access to cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment, particularly for older men, could significantly improve cancer outcomes, according to lead author Habtamu Mellie Bizuayehu.