Cancer rates around the world vary greatly. Epidemiologists reviewed data from 195 countries in 2016 and found quite a large range (JAMA Oncology, June 2, 2018).
Cancer Rates Are Highest in Australia:
In 2016, 17.2 million people in the world were diagnosed with cancer and nearly 9 million people died of the disease. Australia had the highest number of new cancer cases, 744 per 100,000 people. That was followed by New Zealand and the US, with about 540 cases per 100,000.
Cancer Rates Are Lower in India and Sri Lanka:
India and Sri Lanka had low cancer rates, at just over 100 per 100,000. Nonetheless, even with a low rate India has such a large population that the total number of people with cancer is high. You can see the data in these maps and graphs.
The investigators note that the global cancer burden increased over the decade between 2006 and 2016. Except for cancers triggered by infection, such as cervical cancer, wealthy countries had the highest rates.
The authors conclude,
“Strategic investments in cancer control and implementation of effective programs to ensure universal access to cancer care are required.”
