Cases of cancer and death among men are expected to rise globally by 2050, a new study has said. Published in Cancer – a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, the study there is an 84 per cent surge projected in cancer cases and a 93 per cent increase in cancer deaths among men globally between 2022 and 2050.

The study says the increase will mostly affect men 65 years and older, in countries and territories with a low or medium human development index - an index measuring a country’s development in health, knowledge, and standard of living.

The study used data from the Global Cancer Observatory, analyzing more than 30 different types of cancers across 185 countries and territories worldwide to make demographic projections. According to experts, the figures would translate into around 5 million more deaths per year in men in 2050, compared to today.

Earlier this year, the World Health Organization predicted more than 35 million new cancer cases by 2050 – a 77 per cent rise from the estimated 20 million cases in 2022. The survey looked at both men and women in 115 countries.

Why are men more susceptible to cancer?

According to researchers, there are many factors behind the predicted increase, some of which include population ageing and growth, and changes in exposure to risk factors, with air pollution a key driver of environmental risk factors. Various studies have also pointed to tobacco and alcohol use, as well as obesity.

Experts say the link between smoking and cancer is very clear. It causes at least 16 different types of cancer, including two of the most common types - lung cancer and bowel cancer. Cancers caused by smoking include - the nose and sinuses.

Doctors say quitting smoking helps prevent lung cancer, with the risk of lung cancer falling to about half that of a smoker after 10 years. Other benefits of quitting include improved circulation, increased lung function, and decreased coughing and shortness of breath.

Other factors that help explain why men face higher rates of cancer compared to women include lower participation in cancer prevention activities like screenings, tests, and even treatment options, the study authors said. In a news release, lead study author Dr. Habtamu Mellie Bizuayehu said improving access to cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options, especially for older men, could help improve cancer outcomes.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.