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Abstract
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It
is predicted that by 2020, the number of new cases of cancer in the world will increase
to more than 15 million, with deaths increasing to 12 million. Much of the burden
of cancer incidence, morbidity, and mortality will occur in the developing world.
This forms part of a larger epidemiological transition in which the burden of chronic,
non-communicable disease-once limited to industrialized nations-is now increasing
in less developed countries. In addition to the accumulating risks associated with
diet, tobacco, alcohol, lack of exercise, and industrial exposures, the developing
world is already burdened by cancers some of which are attributable to infectious
diseases. These disparities in cancer risk combined with poor access to epidemiological
data, research, treatment, and cancer control and prevention combine to result in
significantly poorer survival rates in developing countries for a range of specific
malignancies. This paper summarizes the recent trends in the epidemiology and survival
of cancers in the developing and developed world, and explores potential causes and
policy responses to the disproportionate and growing cancer burden in less developed
countries. Such responses may include raising awareness as well as education and training
to foster better informed decision-making, together with improved cancer surveillance,
early detection and emphasis on prevention. Improved health care financing and international
initiatives and/or partnerships could also provide additional impetus in targeting
resources where needed urgently.