Cancer has been one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and unfortunately, the situation in the European Union (EU) is not different.
According to the latest forecast, the number of cancer deaths in the EU is expected to reach 1.41 million in 2019, which is a cause of grave concern for governments and health organizations across the region.
Current state of cancer in the EU
The EU has a population of more than 500 million people, and cancer is a significant public health concern.
According to the latest figures, more than 3 million new cases of cancer are diagnosed every year in the EU, and the number is expected to rise in the coming years. The most common types of cancer in the EU include lung cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer.
Factors contributing to the rise in cancer deaths
Several factors contribute to the rise in cancer deaths in the EU. One of the primary reasons is the ageing population.
As people age, they become more susceptible to cancer, and as the EU population is ageing, the number of people diagnosed with cancer is on the rise. Another factor is lifestyle. Smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and alcohol consumption are all leading causes of cancer, and unfortunately, these are prevalent in the EU.
The impact of cancer on the EU economy
The impact of cancer on the EU economy cannot be ignored. Cancer is not only a public health concern but also an economic burden. The cost of treating cancer is high, and it has a significant impact on the EU’s healthcare system.
Additionally, cancer reduces productivity, and as a result, it affects the economy as a whole. Furthermore, cancer has a profound impact on individuals and families, both financially and emotionally.
Efforts to combat cancer in the EU
Efforts to combat cancer in the EU are ongoing. Governments, health organizations, and other stakeholders are working tirelessly to reduce the number of cancer deaths and improve the quality of life for those diagnosed with cancer.
Prevention is a crucial element of combatting cancer, and efforts to encourage healthy lifestyles are underway. Early detection is also critical, and cancer screening programs are available across the EU. Additionally, research into cancer treatment and prevention is ongoing, and significant progress has been made in recent years.
The need for continued action
While progress in cancer prevention and treatment has been made, the grim forecast of 1.41 million cancer deaths in the EU in 2019 highlights the need for continued action.
Governments and health organizations must work together to raise awareness about cancer, encourage healthy lifestyles, and ensure that cancer screening programs are widely available. Investment in cancer research is also critical to help progress towards finding a cure for this disease.
Conclusion
The forecast of 1.41 million cancer deaths in the EU in 2019 is an unfortunate reality that demands immediate attention.
The impact of cancer on individuals and families, the economy, and healthcare systems is significant, and the need for continued action cannot be overstated. As a region, the EU must work together to combat cancer, with efforts focused on prevention, early detection, and treatment.