According to figures from Europe, cancer will constitute an increasing burden on European healthcare and economic structure in the future. Latest results from 2009 statistics indicate that Europe, with 10.7 % of the world’s population, is responsible for 24 % of all new cancer cases reported for this year alone with an overall cost of 82 billion Euros for the year.
If this current trend continues, it is predicted that by the year 2040 there will be an increase in colon cancer by 50 % mainly amongst the younger age groups. This figure for colon cancer alone would place an enormous burden on the social and economic structure of Europe.
Unlike years ago there is more hope for people who are more susceptible to cancer either by life choices or due to genetic causes. One of the bigger success stories in recent years is related to the implementation and recommendation of early screening processes for some of the common cancers.
For many cancer forms early detection is the key to successful treatment and survival.