South-East Asia cancer deaths to rise 85% by 2050: WHO

NEW DELHI: The South-East Asia Region including India, reported the highest number of cancers of lips and oral cavity, uterine cervix, and childhood cancers among all World Health Organisation regions in 2022, regional director of WHO SEAR Saima Wazed said on Monday.

WHO South East Asia Region (SEAR) includes India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar and Nepal.

Wazed said it is estimated that by 2050, there will be an 85% increase in the number of new cancer cases and deaths in the region.

Wazed called for joint efforts led by govts, supported by WHO and partners, and through collaboration that will make the region better equipped to tackle the rising cancer burden.

Ahead of World Cancer Day on Tuesday, she said, "On this year's World Cancer Day themed 'United by Unique', which is a reminder of the collective commitment against cancer, WHO acknowledges every patient's unique experiences, and the value of people-centred care delivered jointly by healthcare providers, families, friends and community. WHO SEAR reported 2.4 million new cases of cancer in 2022, including 56,000 children, and 1.5 million deaths.

The region has seen the fastest rate of decline in tobacco use - a major risk factor for several high-burden cancers.