Chasing Life With Dr. Sanjay Gupta | Cancer cases are on the rise around the world

This is a guest post by WWSG exclusive speaker, Dr. Sanjay Gupta.

It’s something that will probably affect all of us in some way during our lives, whether it’s you, a friend or a family member: Cancer cases are on the rise around the world.

In recent weeks, we have heard of several high-profile cancer diagnoses: US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, King Charles III and CNN’s very own Sara Sidner.

Now, a World Health Organization report estimates that global cancer diagnoses will jump 77% by 2050, reaching 35 million cases, up from 20 million cases diagnosed in 2022.

That’s not an easy number to digest, especially since we have also seen reports that cancer patients in the US are becoming younger.

What should we take away from this?

The good news is that the number of people dying from cancer continues to decline. This is mostly due to less smoking, early detection and improved treatment treatments.

One study found that screening reduces the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%.

As for why cases still rise, the WHO report authors point to increases in obesity, tobacco and alcohol use and other environmental factors like air pollution.

Of course, not all of these things are in our control, but developing healthy habits and getting the recommended cancer screenings are things you can do.

Contact WWSG for Sanjay Gupta‘s speaking availability.