Despite projected increases in cancer cases, report says progress is possible

A new report from the American Cancer Society and others finds that although cancer cases globally are expected to increase 60% by 2040, progress against the disease is achievable. Here’s more: 

• Tobacco-related cancers: Tobacco causes the most preventable cancers — nearly a quarter of all cancer deaths in 2017 were due to smoking. But smoke-free legislation over the last decade now protects 1.5 billion people across 55 countries. 
• Childhood cancers: The five-year survival rate for children with cancer in high-income countries is more than 80%, but 20% for those in poorer countries. Early diagnosis and better treatment adherence could bring that number up to 60%. 
• Cervical cancer: Current trends could mean an additional 44 million cervical cancer cases by 2069. Better screening and vaccination could avert about a third of those cases.