Economic Impact of Colorectal Cancer in Brazil: A Growing Concern

Recent research highlights the significant and growing economic burden of colorectal cancer in Brazil, extending beyond the direct healthcare costs. A collaborative effort between the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and Brazilian institutions, including the National Cancer Institute (INCA), has focused on quantifying this indirect economic impact and advocating for increased investment in prevention, screening, and treatment.

Rising Incidence and Delayed Diagnosis

Studies indicate an increasing incidence of colorectal cancer among individuals under 50 in Brazil, projected to rise by 21% between 2030 and 2040. The Global Cancer Observatory provides comprehensive global cancer statistics. This increase is linked to factors such as an aging population, diets high in ultra-processed foods, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity. Compounding the issue, approximately 65% of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment.

Disparities in Access to Treatment

Access to timely treatment remains a significant challenge, particularly for Black and mixed-race individuals and those with lower levels of education. These populations, often reliant on the Unified Health System (SUS), frequently experience delays in treatment initiation, often requiring travel outside their local municipality to receive care.

Colorectal Cancer: A Public Health Priority

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in both women (after breast cancer) and men (after prostate cancer) in Brazil. It affects the colon and rectum, and mortality rates have increased by 120% in the last 20 years, with a notable rise in premature mortality (ages 30-69).

Quantifying the Economic Impact

A study published in The Lancet, conducted by researchers from IARC and international collaborators, estimated the indirect economic impact of colorectal cancer mortality in Brazil between 2001 and 2030. The impact was measured using the human capital methodology, calculating potential years of productive life lost and associated productivity losses.

The study estimated 635,253 deaths from colorectal cancer between 2001 and 2030, resulting in 12.6 million years of potential productive life lost and productivity losses of approximately US$22.6 billion.

Regional Disparities

The research revealed significant regional inequalities. While the North and Northeast regions exhibited the lowest total economic impacts, they experienced the highest relative increases in mortality, years of productive life lost, and productivity losses. Conversely, the South and Southeast regions, with more advanced epidemiological and demographic profiles, had higher absolute mortality and economic losses.

The Importance of Prevention and Early Detection

Effective control of colorectal cancer requires a multi-pronged approach: primary prevention strategies to reduce risk factors, secondary prevention through screening for early detection and removal of precursor lesions, and tertiary prevention ensuring timely access to treatment.

IARC and INCA Collaboration

The collaboration between IARC and INCA, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on September 25, 2023, in Lyon, France, aims to enhance cancer control efforts in Brazil and the region. This partnership includes organizing training courses and fostering collaborative research, with a focus on prevention, screening, early diagnosis, and cancer surveillance. INCA has been a member of IARC since 2013, representing the only Latin American country with membership.

Looking Ahead

This research underscores the critical need for sustained investment in cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. By addressing the economic consequences of cancer mortality, policymakers can make informed decisions to reduce inequalities, save lives, and promote societal development. Further research into the global burden of cancer and its broader impacts is essential to support effective public health policies.