The world will see a 60% increase in cancer cases over the next two decades if current trends continue, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned.

Axar.az reports citing foreign media that in 2019, more than 90% of high-income countries reported that comprehensive treatment services for cancer were available in the public health system compared to less than 15% of low-income countries, it added.

“The greatest increase [an estimated 81%] in new cases will occur in low- and middle-income countries where survival rates are currently the lowest,” the WHO said in a statement on Tuesday, marking the annual World Cancer Day.

“At least 7 million lives could be saved over the next decade by identifying the most appropriate science for each country situation, by basing strong cancer responses on universal health coverage, and by mobilizing different stakeholders to work together,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, was quoted as saying.