A new report published in *JAMA Oncology* by the American Cancer Society (ACS) projects a significant global increase in breast cancer incidence and mortality by 2050. The report forecasts a 40-50% rise in new cases, reaching over 3 million annually, and a 60% increase in deaths, totaling more than 1 million annually. This surge is expected to disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
The ACS attributes approximately 80% of the projected rise in cases and 90% of deaths to LMICs, where five-year survival rates can be as low as 40% compared to over 90% in high-income countries. This disparity is linked to shifting reproductive patterns, Westernized lifestyles including diet, obesity, physical inactivity, and alcohol use, and limited access to early detection and timely treatment. The report specifically notes that overweight/obesity and alcohol consumption contribute to 25% of breast cancer cases in women aged 50 and older.
The report calls for urgent global action, emphasizing increased funding, policy changes, and improved infrastructure within LMICs to enhance prevention, early detection, and timely treatment. Dr. William Dahut, ACS chief scientific officer, underscored the necessity for immediate intervention. Karen E. Knudsen, ACS CEO, highlighted the alarming increase as a signal to reduce risk and address inequities in breast cancer outcomes.
