Global Cancer Mortality Rises as Experts Urge Expanded Screening

Liver cancer deaths are climbing rapidly, now the third leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Major preventable drivers include obesity, type‑2 diabetes, excess alcohol use and viral hepatitis, yet public awareness remains low and many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Early lifestyle changes and screening can reduce risk and improve survival.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer‑related deaths, with about 1.8 million fatalities in 2022. The Forum of International Respiratory Societies, together with the American Thoracic Society, is calling for equitable access to low‑dose CT screening for high‑risk populations. Barriers such as limited availability, financial constraints and geographic challenges hinder early detection, which is shown to lower mortality. The societies urge governments and health systems to develop sustainable screening programs, raise awareness, and ensure timely follow‑up care.