Africa's cancer burden to rise without funding shift

Subject

Cancer burden in Africa.

Significance

Cancer is a growing public health threat in low-income countries, including African states. With the increase in urbanisation, population growth and improving mortality rates, the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that by 2020, 16 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed each year, with 70% of those in low-income countries. However, the rise in cancer rates has not been met with changes to aid funding. Global health priorities continue to emphasise infectious diseases, and African countries remain ill-equipped to prevent, diagnose or treat cancer.

Impacts

• Rising consumption of processed foods in urban areas will contribute to an overall rise in non-communicable diseases.
• African countries are some of the fastest growing markets for tobacco companies as health awareness rises in traditional markets.
• Global brewers will enjoy significant market expansion in Africa, contributing to increased alcohol consumption.
• Despite the economic benefits, delayed childbearing and lower fertility in women is set to increase the incidence of breast cancer.