Cancer incidence and healthcare costs rise globally

Cancer cases and healthcare demands are rising globally and across the European Union. In the EU, an estimated 2.7 million new cases are expected in 2024. Since 2000, new cases have increased by approximately 30%, with a 16% rise among young women driven by thyroid, breast, skin melanoma, and colorectal cancers.

Economic pressure is mounting as cancer-related expenditure in the EU rose from EUR 54 billion in 1995 to EUR 120 billion in 2023. Aging populations are projected to increase per-capita spending by 59% by 2050. Challenges remain regarding uneven care, including delays in diagnosis and variations in clinical practices across member states.

On a global scale, the World Health Organization notes that cancer is a leading cause of mortality, with new cases expected to rise by 70% over the next two decades. Research suggests that dietary habits play a significant role in prevention. Studies indicate that consuming nuts—such as peanuts, walnuts, or almonds—may reduce the risk of breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers due to their nutrient composition.