A new study published in the journal Cancer has revealed alarming projections for cancer cases and deaths among men in the coming decades. Particularly concerning is the expected rise in cancer rates among men aged 65 and older. The research underscores the urgent need for interventions to address the current disparity in cancer mortality and cases among men, which are predicted to become even more pronounced without appropriate measures.

According to the study, between 2022 and 2050, cancer cases among men are projected to increase by a staggering 84 percent, from 10.3 million to 19 million. Similarly, deaths are expected to rise by 94 percent, from 5.4 million to 10.5 million. These figures highlight a worrying 117 percent increase in cancer-related deaths among men aged 65 years and older.

The study also emphasizes that cancer cases and deaths are not isolated to specific age groups but are projected to increase significantly among working-age individuals as well. Countries with lower income levels and life expectancies are likely to experience a 50 percent increase in cancer cases and deaths, while more developed countries are projected to witness a nearly 40 percent rise.

One of the key findings of the study is the current disparity between men and women in terms of cancer mortality and incidence rates. In 2020, the global age-adjusted cancer mortality rate was 43 percent higher among men compared to women. Similarly, the incidence rate was 19 percent greater among men. The study identifies several risk factors that contribute to these disparities, including higher rates of smoking, alcohol consumption, and exposure to carcinogens in the workplace. Furthermore, the lower participation of men in cancer prevention activities and underutilization of available prevention, screening, and treatment options may also contribute to these discrepancies.

The study conducted an analysis of cancer cases and deaths from 30 different types of cancer across 185 countries, using data from 2022. The findings indicate that lung cancer is expected to remain the leading type of cancer, both in terms of cases and deaths, with an anticipated increase of more than 87 percent. Additionally, mesothelioma is projected to have the highest increase in cases, while prostate cancer is expected to see the biggest rise in deaths.

Projections for the next few decades vary depending on the level of development in each country. Cancer cases are predicted to increase by 50 percent in more developed countries, while less developed countries may face a staggering 140 percent surge. Similarly, the rise in deaths is expected to range from approximately 64 percent in more developed countries to an alarming 142 percent in less developed nations.

In light of these concerning figures, researchers stress the importance of strengthening health access and infrastructure to improve cancer outcomes in men and adequately prepare for the anticipated rise in cancer burden by 2050. They suggest that expanding worldwide universal health coverage could significantly reduce disparities and enhance cancer outcomes, particularly in low- and medium-income countries where access to basic cancer care is currently limited.

The study's findings serve as a wake-up call for governments, healthcare systems, and individuals to take proactive steps in addressing the soaring cancer rates among men. Efforts to reduce risk factors, encourage participation in cancer prevention activities, and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare are essential to combat this increasing public health challenge.