In their new study, scientists examined the effect of cancer on the world economy, not the effect of cancer on individuals this time. Research published in the journal JAMA Oncology revealed that cancer will cost the world economy $25.2 trillion between 2020 and 2050.
This economic impact includes the cost of diagnosis and treatment, as well as the fact that individuals have to leave their jobs and the savings they will spend on treatment. Of course, the $25.2 trillion impact will be valid today if research against cancer does not continue and a measure cannot be found.
The types of cancer that will have the most impact on the economy were also determined:
In their research, scientists also determined the types of cancer that will affect the world economy the most. The species and its share of the $25.2 trillion impact were shared as follows:
- Tracheal, bronchial and lung cancer – 15.4%
- Colon and rectal cancer – 10.9%
- Breast cancer – 7.7%
- Liver cancer – 6.5%
- Leukemia – 6.3%
The economic impact of cancer will also vary by country:
According to the study, especially underdeveloped regions and countries such as Sub-Saharan Africa will be most affected by breast and cervical cancer. On the other hand, the type that will make the most impact in more developed countries will be liver cancer, which especially affects the elderly population.