WHO report highlights major returns on investment in protecting women against cancers
2 December 2024, Cairo, Egypt – The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a new report that highlights how, if left unaddressed, breast and cervical cancers in the Eastern Mediterranean Region could result in the loss of millions of lives and billions of dollars over the next 2 decades.
Women’s cancers represent a major public health challenge in the Region, causing immense suffering and substantial social and economic costs. In 2020, these cancers claimed 60 000 lives and cost US$ 15 billion, equivalent to 0.44% of the Region’s GDP. Cancer deaths are projected to soar to 2 million over the next 20 years, with associated economic costs rising to US$ 379 billion by 2040.
In response to calls from Member States for evidence-based guidance, WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean conducted a comprehensive situation analysis and investment case on the impact of women’s cancers on health systems and economies. The findings underscore the urgent need for early intervention to mitigate the growing crisis. Key takeaways include:
In 2020, breast and cervical cancers resulted in 60 000 deaths in the Region.
The economic burden of these cancers is projected to reach US$ 379 billion by 2040, with up to 99% of the costs stemming from lost productivity due to premature deaths.
Cost-effective interventions, such as HPV vaccination and early breast cancer diagnosis and
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