The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), has released alarming figures regarding the global burden of cancer. In 2022, there were 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths recorded. These statistics paint a concerning picture: 1 in 5 people will develop cancer at some point in their life, and 1 in 12 women or 1 in 9 men will die from the disease.

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Most Common Types of Cancer

According to IARC data, the most common cancers worldwide in 2022 were lung, breast, and colorectal cancers. These three types alone accounted for nearly one-third of all new diagnoses.

• Lung cancer: With 2.5 million new cases, it was the most diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

• Breast cancer: Affecting 2.3 million women, it was the most common cancer among females.

• Colorectal cancer: Recorded 1.9 million diagnoses and 900,000 deaths, ranking third in both incidence and mortality.

Among women, breast cancer topped the list for both diagnoses and deaths in most countries. Among men, lung cancer remained the most prevalent and deadliest, largely due to widespread tobacco use—particularly in Asia.

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Inequality in Cancer Care

One of the most striking aspects of the report is the inequality in access to cancer care. A WHO survey across 115 countries found that only 39% include basic cancer treatment in their essential health services.

Moreover, just 28% of countries provide comprehensive palliative care, including pain relief for cancer patients. In low-income countries, access to critical services like radiotherapy or stem cell transplants is significantly lower than in high-income nations.

Dr. Isabelle Soerjomataram, a cancer surveillance expert, explained that women in countries with low Human Development Index (HDI) are far less likely to receive early diagnoses and quality treatment. As a result, they face a higher risk of dying from breast cancer or other forms of cancer.