Cancer rates could rise by 75 per cent: report

Tabacco use will contribute to the global rise of cancer, according to a new report. Photo / Thinkstock

Cancer rates around the world could rise more than 75 per cent by 2030, new research reveals.

The number of people with cancer in 2030 could rise to 22.2 million if population rates continue to grow at the same rate, CNN reports. In 2008 there were 12.7 million affected by cancer, according to the research led by Freddie Bray of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in France.

These figures are based on the UN's population forecast, the IARC's database tracking cancer incidence in 184 countries and expected increases in the rates of colorectal, female breast, prostate and, in high-income countries, lung cancer in women, Bloomberg reports.

Dr Bray looked at how cancer rates and fatalities differed around the world depending on economic development. Cases are expected to surge in poorer countries - as measured by the UN's Human Development Index.

These countries could see a doubling in the incidence of cancer to 490,000 in 2030 from 2008, according to the study published in the Lancet journal.

Any reductions in infection-related cancers like stomach, cervical or liver cancer are being offset by more cases that associated with reproductive, dietary and hormonal factors. Tobacco is also a key contributor to rising cancer rates.

"This study underscores the fact that there is significant variation in the types of cancer occurring in various regions of the world based on different levels of development," the authors write.

Targeted interventions are needed to "effectively control the prevalence of lifestyle factors including tobacco avoidance and cessation of smoking, a reduction in alcohol consumption and obesity, and the promotion of increased levels of physical activity."

- HERALD ONLINE