Male cancer cases, deaths projected to increase in 2050: study

Oh, man!

The number of male cancer cases worldwide is projected to rise from 10.3 million in 2022 to 19 million in 2050 – an 84% increase, Australian health experts say.

Furthermore, the number of men dying from cancer is expected to increase 93%, from 5.4 million in 2022 to 10.5 million in 2050.

Researchers analyzed 30 types of cancer and population data from 185 countries and territories to estimate cancer incidence and deaths among men in 2050. Their findings were published Monday in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.

The study authors report that men face higher rates of cancer and cancer-related deaths because men tend to smoke and drink more alcohol than women. Men are also more likely to be exposed to carcinogens at work and less likely to be screened for cancer.

Men 65 and older have worse survival rates than younger men, which the study authors attribute to less tolerance for treatment, diagnosis at more advanced stages and inability to afford health care.

Among older men, cancer cases are projected to increase from 6 million in 2022 to 13.1 million in 2050 and deaths from 3.4 million to 7.7 million over the same period.

In addition to age, the researchers also noted widening disparities in cancer outcomes based on countries’ economic status.

Worldwide, lung cancer is expected to continue to cause the largest number of cancer cases and deaths in 2050, with both numbers increasing by more than 87% compared to 2022.

There are more than 1.25 billion tobacco users worldwide, according to data from the World Health Organization by 2022, even more people give up the habit.

Prostate and colorectal cancers are also fueling the cancer epidemic.

Prostate cancer deaths are expected to increase by 136% from 2022 to 2050, which researchers have blamed on men getting older and living longer, which gives the cancer more time to develop.

Meanwhile, mesothelioma cases are expected to grow the most among cancer types, increasing by 105% by 2022. The rare but aggressive disease develops in the thin tissue that lines the lungs and covers other organs. The increase in mesothelioma cases has been linked to an aging population and exposure to asbestos.

Skin cancer is also expected to cause more deaths in 2050, while bladder cancer is predicted to be more prevalent and deadlier.

The study’s lead author, Habtamu Mellie Bizuayehu, from the University of Queensland, said there needed to be better cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment options, particularly for older men.

Experts say it’s important to avoid smoking, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption, choose fruits and vegetables over red and processed meat, get enough sleep, exercise regularly and protect your skin from the sun to reduce the risk of cancer.