Cancer Expected to Skyrocket in Asia by 2020

This AP story submitted by ViaViente VP of Sales Leader Support Asia-Pacific Mike Brosnan

SINGAPORE – Asia is bracing for a dramatic surge in cancer rates over the next decade as people in the developing world live longer and adopt bad Western habits that greatly increase the risk of the disease.

Smoking, drinking and eating unhealthy foods — all linked to various cancers — will combine with larger populations … to drive Asian cancer rates up 60 percent by 2020, some experts predict.

But unlike in wealthy countries where the world’s top medical care is found, there will likely be no prevention or treatment for many living in poor countries.  “The habit of alcohol consumption, smoking and dietary changes will increase the risk of Western world cancers to the Eastern world,” Shah said.  An estimated 40 percent of cancers worldwide can be prevented by exercise, eating healthy foods and not using tobacco, according to the World Health Organization.