DOHA: Global spending on cancer has reached levels equivalent to Hong Kong’s GDP, the 35th largest economy in the world.
It is estimated that, from 2008 to 2030, cancer incidence will rise by 65 percent in high-income countries, 80 percent in middle-income countries and 100 percent in the poorest countries.
Economies expect increases of 16–32 percent in new diagnoses over the next 10 years. Projections from the US, the UK and Australia suggest that cancer costs three could increase by 42–66 percent above current levels by 2025. These are among the findings of a new report to be presented at the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) in Qatar later this month.
To mark World Cancer Day (February 4), the authors of the report have released early findings to help drive awareness of the global cancer burden, highlighting on the scale of the problem and calling on governments, policymakers and healthcare organisations to tackle the rising costs of the disease.
World Cancer Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the disease to harness and mobilise solutions and helping positive action at individual, community and governmental levels.
The WISH report also presents evidence that in many cases cancer could be treated differently and that there are too many instances of over-treatment and needless use of expensive technology. It highlights innovative projects from around the world that have driven efficiencies and improved treatments.
The report says cancer is responsible for 5–7 percent of healthcare costs in high-income countries and reached about $290 billion in 2010; Cancer is the second largest contributor to the non-communicable disease burden; there were 13.3 million new cases in 2010, with the number projected to rise to 21.5m in 2030.
Professor Robert J S Thomas, ‘Delivering Affordable Cancer Care’ WISH Forum Chair said: “Our aim is to develop a plan to encourage governments, policymakers and healthcare organisations to take up and recognise the problem of affordability.
“It’s a key issue for patients at all levels and for governments. Everyone is worried about the high cost of cancer care. What we want is a plan which will help patients in the long term.”
Professor Lord Darzi of Denham, Executive Chair, WISH, and Director, Institute of Global Health Innovation at Imperial College of London, said: “World Cancer Day provides a platform for people to reflect on the impact the disease has on millions of lives.
“As populations age, more people are developing cancer, they are surviving longer with it and treatment costs are soaring. The only way to help patients get the treatment they need is to ensure that money is spent effectively.
“The report brings together the greatest minds in the field of cancer care to deliver insight that will help policymakers and healthcare professionals find solutions to address the cost and health consequences of the disease.” The Peninsula
