Global breast bancer cases and deaths projected to surge by 2050

Breast cancer cases and deaths are projected to rise significantly by 2050, with global cases expected to increase by 38% and deaths by 68%, according to a new study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In the UK, cases are set to rise by 21% and deaths by 42%.

The study, published in Nature Medicine, predicts 3.2 million new cases and 1.1 million deaths annually by 2050 if current trends continue. The rise is attributed to factors such as an ageing population, improved detection, and higher prevalence of risk factors, including genetics, alcohol consumption, and obesity.

While breast cancer rates are highest in developed regions like Australia, North America, and Europe, death rates are most severe in Melanesia, Polynesia, and West Africa. Experts emphasize the importance of early detection, better treatment access, and prevention strategies like maintaining a healthy lifestyle to curb the increasing burden of the disease.