A Growing Global Threat
Breast cancer has become the most common cancer worldwide, with a projected one million deaths annually by 2040, according to a new Lancet Commission report. The report highlights the rising incidence of the disease, with an estimated 7.8 million women diagnosed in the past five years and 685,000 deaths in 2020 alone.
women globally have a 1 in 12 risk of developing breast cancer before the age of 75, and this risk is increasing. By 2040, cases are expected to exceed 3 million annually, with low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected.
## Gaps in Knowledge and Resources
The report identifies several knowledge gaps hindering effective action against breast cancer. For instance, the number of women with metastatic breast cancer, where the disease spreads to other parts of the body, remains unknown. Additionally, the true scale of suffering and associated costs are not fully measured, leading to an underestimation of the burden on individuals and society.
## Addressing Inequities and Hidden Costs
The report calls for addressing glaring inequities in breast cancer care. While high-income countries have achieved a 40% reduction in deaths, many patients in low- and middle-income countries are left behind due to limited access to diagnosis and treatment. This results in poorer survival rates, with rates exceeding 90% in high-income countries compared to 66% in India and 40% in South Africa.
The report emphasizes the need for improved early detection programs, as countries with successful survival rate improvements consistently diagnose at least 60% of invasive breast cancers at early stages. Additionally, the report calls for bold policy changes to reduce exposure to modifiable risk factors like alcohol consumption, overweight, and physical inactivity.
## Communication and Patient Empowerment
The report highlights the importance of better communication between patients and healthcare professionals. This can improve quality of life, body image, and adherence to therapy, ultimately impacting survival. Patients should be encouraged to actively participate in care decisions and exercise their voices.
Furthermore, the report advocates for developing new tools and metrics to capture the full spectrum of costs associated with breast cancer, including physical, psychological, social, and financial burdens. This will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the disease's impact and guide effective interventions.
By addressing these challenges and hidden costs, the global community can work towards reducing the burden of breast cancer and improving the lives of those affected.