Prostate cancer is a major concern globally, with the number of cases and deaths expected to double and increase by 85% by 2040, according to a study published in The Lancet. The rise in cases is expected to be most prominent in low- and middle-income countries, where access to early detection screenings like PSA testing is limited. As more men worldwide reach middle and old age, the inevitable increase in prostate cancer cases has researchers urging for early planning and action.
Researchers suggest that men at high risk for prostate cancer, including those with a family history, those of African descent, and those with the BRACA2 gene mutation, be screened early using PSA testing and MRI scans even in high-income countries. Despite efforts to promote lifestyle changes and public health interventions, the main risk factors for prostate cancer—being a man over 50 and having a family history of the disease—remain unavoidable. The study highlights the importance of early detection for better outcomes in treating prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer currently accounts for 15% of all male cancers globally and is the most common form of cancer in men in more than half of countries. While it is rare for women to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, early detection is key to better survival rates. Countries with limited access to screenings have higher rates of prostate cancer and deaths among residents, with disparities in research and treatment for different ethnic groups highlighted in the Lancet study.
Celebrities like Sir Ian McKellen, Robert De Niro, and others have publicly shared their battles with prostate cancer, raising awareness about the disease. The importance of early detection and access to screenings is emphasized in the fight against prostate cancer, as cases found late have much lower survival rates. With the projected increase in cases and deaths by 2040, proactive measures and research are crucial to addressing the growing burden of prostate cancer on a global scale.
The study’s findings underscore the need for increased research involving patients of different ethnicities, particularly those of West African descent, to ensure that advancements in treatment and outcomes are inclusive. With prostate cancer already affecting a significant portion of the male population worldwide, early planning and action are essential to mitigate the impact of the disease. As cases continue to rise in low- and middle-income countries, efforts to improve access to screenings and treatment options will be vital in addressing the challenges posed by prostate cancer in the coming decades.
