Cancer cases worldwide could surge to nearly 35 million a year by 2050 unless governments take urgent action to improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment, according to a new report released by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The WHO Global Status Report on Cancer 2026, developed with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), estimates that cancer currently causes more than 26,000 deaths every day. Around 20.6 million new cases and nearly 10 million deaths are recorded annually, making cancer the world's second leading cause of death after cardiovascular disease.
The report warns that despite scientific advances and stronger political commitments, millions of people continue to face major barriers to accessing essential cancer services. It highlights widening inequalities in prevention, early detection, treatment and supportive care, particularly in low-income countries.
Survival rates vary sharply across income levels. While 87% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in high-income countries survive for at least five years, the figure falls to about 42% in low-income nations. In addition, fewer than one-third of countries include comprehensive cancer care in their universal health coverage packages.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said a person's chances of surviving cancer should not depend on where they live or how much they earn, stressing that the disparities identified in the report are preventable through stronger and more coordinated action.
The report also reveals the heavy financial and emotional burden of cancer. WHO's first global survey of people affected by the disease found that at least 45% experienced financial hardship, more than half reported mental health challenges, and nearly all caregivers faced significant strain, including unpaid caregiving responsibilities and social isolation.
Regionally, Asia accounted for over half of global cancer cases and deaths in 2024, while Europe recorded a disproportionately high share of cases relative to its population. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, with breast, colorectal and prostate cancers also contributing significantly to the global burden.
Nearly 40% of cancer cases are linked to preventable risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, obesity, physical inactivity and infections including human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C, and Helicobacter pylori.
Although tobacco use has declined by 27% since 2010 and more countries have introduced national cancer control plans, access to essential cancer medicines remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries.
The WHO has called on governments, health organisations, researchers and civil society to adopt a people-centred approach to cancer care by expanding universal health coverage, strengthening social protection and ensuring equitable access to life-saving prevention, treatment and innovation.