Download burden of cancer in the uk

BURDEN OF CANCER IN THE UK
Cancer is the single largest cause of death in the UK.
Recent data suggest 1 in 2 of us will develop cancer during our lifetime, and the incidence is
increasing. i,ii Cancer is responsible for more deaths in the UK (29%) than any other condition, iii with
more premature life years lost to cancer than the next three conditions combined (cardiovascular,
respiratory and liver conditions).
While cancer incidence has increased, cancer mortality has decreased by around one-fifth over the
past 40 years resulting in a rapid growth in prevalence. It is estimated that in 2012 there were more
than 2.1 million patients living with and beyond cancer in the UK and this is predicted to increase to
4 million by 2030. iv
For people diagnosed with and treated for cancer, there is often a legacy of treatment. The
economic burden, in terms of treatment and care costs and loss of income generation for cancer
patients and their carers, is also significant.
A recent Lancet Oncology commission highlighted the expanding role for primary care across all
parts of the cancer pathway – from prevention to end-of-life care. v The authors identify that primary
care trainees and practitioners must be equipped for this growing role. It is also clear that efforts
should be targeted to reduce the variation in cancer outcomes seen across the country and in
different population groups.
More information
For more information on cancer statistics in the UK, visit http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/healthprofessional/cancer-statistics
i
Ahmed AS et al. British Journal of Cancer 2015; 112: 943–947.
ii
http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/vsob1/cancer-statistics-registrations--england--series-mb1/index.html Accessed 30 September 2015
iii
Office of National Statistics
iv
Maddams J et al. British Journal of Cancer 2012; 107(7):1195–202
v
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/issue/vol16no12/PIIS1470-2045(15)X0007-6