Comparing cancer and cardiovascular disease trends in 20 middle- or high-income countries 2000–19: a pointer to national trajectories towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal Target 3.4

In a new study published in the journal Cancer Treatment Reviews, scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) examined trends in premature death from cardiovascular disease and cancer in 20 countries with robust mortality data.

The researchers assessed national trajectories in the probability of dying at ages 30–70 years from the two diseases over the period 2000–2019. They also predicted whether the countries will meet Target 3.4 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – a reduction by one third in premature mortality from the four major noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by 2030 – and whether this target will be met for cardiovascular disease and cancer.

In the high-income countries studied, uniform declines in premature death from cardiovascular disease and cancer were observed in this millennium. In the middle-income countries, progress was more mixed, with greater success evident in the control of cardiovascular disease. The authors found that Target 3.4 for NCDs is likely to be attained by 2030 in 7 of the 10 high-income countries and 2 of the 10 middle-income countries studied.

This study reveals both advances and inequities in progress in tackling the two leading causes of premature mortality worldwide. The researchers conclude that national investments in effective and cost-effective measures are needed to curb early deaths from NCDs and reap the associated public health and economic benefits.

Bray F, Laversanne M, Cao B, Varghese C, Mikkelsen B, Weiderpass E, et al.
Comparing cancer and cardiovascular disease trends in 20 middle- or high-income countries 2000–19: a pointer to national trajectories towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal Target 3.4
Cancer Treat Rev, Published online 9 September 2021;
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctrv.2021.102290

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