Today, February 4, the world unites for the World Cancer Day, a crucial opportunity to reflect on the challenges and hopes linked to this widespread disease. In Italy, estimates for 2023 indicate a worrying increase in new diagnoses, reaching 395 million pounds. In the post-pandemic period, an alarming increase is observed, with an increase in 18,400 diagnoses in just three years.
A recent study, published in the journal Lancet Oncology and coordinated by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità and by IRCCS Foundation National Cancer Institute of Milanhighlights an increase in 3.5% per annum he was born in 41% overall between 2010 and 2020, attributable to the aging of the population. The highest values are found in Germany, Italy, Belgium and Francewhile the lowest in Bulgaria, Poland and Slovakia.
Advertisements
Focusing on Italian data, a worrying decrease in screening emerges, especially in the North. In 2023, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer (55,900 almost), followed by colorectal (50.500), lung (44.000) and prostate (41.100). Despite this, the good news is that in the last 13 years they have been saved 268 mila vite from the disease.
The estimates ofOMS for 2022 they indicate 20 million of new cancer cases globally, with 9.7 million of deaths. The perspective for the 2050 foresees further 35 million of new cases, highlighting an increase in 77% compared to 2022. Risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol and obesity continue to have an impact, together with air pollution.
An interesting study published on Journal of Public Health underlines the importance of the level of education in the oncology treatment path. In Italy, about a quarter of cancer deaths are attributable to low levels of educationhighlighting the need for educational interventions.
Experts point out that the 40% of cancer cases it can be avoided by adopting healthy lifestyles, such as quitting smoking, following a correct diet and practicing regular physical activity. Primary prevention emerges as a powerful ally in the fight against cancer, as confirmed by numerous scientific studies.
Scientific advances offer a glimmer of hope. Recent studies published on Nature e ACS Nano highlight new discoveries, including the presence of bacteria in some intestinal tumors and an artificial intelligence tool that can predict pancreatic cancer earlier. Furthermore, the approval of new drugs, such as “trastuzumab deruxtecan,” opens up new possibilities for the treatment of gastric cancer.
In conclusion, the World Cancer Day reminds us of the importance of prevention, education and scientific advances in the fight against this disease. Awareness and access to innovative treatments are key to addressing the growing challenge of post-pandemic diagnoses.
NurseTimes editorial team
Find out how to earn money by publishing your thesis on NurseTimes
The NEXT project is renewed and becomes NEXT 2.0: we publish the questionnaires and your theses
Upload your thesis: tesi.nursetimes.org