Oh, man!
The number of male cancer cases around the world is projected to spike from 10.3 million in 2022 to 19 million in 2050 — an 84% increase, Australian health experts say.
What’s more, the number of men who die from cancer is expected to rise 93%, from 5.4 million in 2022 to 10.5 million in 2050.
The researchers analyzed 30 cancer types and population data from 185 countries and territories to estimate cancer incidence and deaths among men in 2050. Their findings were published Monday in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.
The study authors report that men face higher rates of cancer and cancer-related deaths because men tend to smoke and drink alcohol more than women. Men are also more likely to be exposed to carcinogens at work and less likely to get screened for cancer.
Men 65 and older have worse survival rates than young men, which the study authors attribute to less tolerance for treatment, diagnosis at more advanced stages and inability to afford healthcare.
Among older men, cancer cases are projected to skyrocket from 6 million in 2022 to 13.1 million in 2050 and deaths from 3.4 million to 7.7 million over the same period.
Besides age, the researchers also noted widening cancer outcome disparities based on countries’ economic status.
Worldwide, lung cancer is expected to continue to cause the most cancer cases and deaths in 2050, with both numbers increasing by more than 87% compared to 2022.
There are more than 1.25 billion tobacco users worldwide, according to World Health Organization data from 2022, even as many people kick the habit.
Prostate and colorectal cancer are also fueling the cancer epidemic.
Deaths from prostate cancer are expected to jump 136% from 2022 to 2050, which researchers have blamed on men getting older and living longer, which gives the cancer more time to develop.
Meanwhile, mesothelioma cases are expected to increase the most among the cancer types, rising 105% from 2022. The rare but aggressive disease develops in the thin tissue that lines the lungs and covers other organs. The growth in mesothelioma cases has been tied to populations getting older and asbestos exposure.
Skin cancer is also expected to cause more deaths in 2050, while bladder cancer is projected to be more prevalent and more deadly.
Lead study author Habtamu Mellie Bizuayehu, of the University of Queensland, said there needs to be better cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment options, especially for older men.
Experts say it’s important to avoid smoking, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption, opt for fruits and vegetables over red and processed meats, get adequate sleep, exercise regularly and protect your skin from the sun to lower your cancer risk.