Access to cancer genetic testing unequal worldwide: New Lancet Commission

The team estimated that seven to eight million (70-80 lakh) people with cancer worldwide need standard-of-care molecular testing every year |Image used for representational purpose only | Photo Credit: Getty Images Access to genomic testing and matched treatments remains profoundly unequal within and between countries, according to a new commission by The Lancet Oncology.It has also identified substantial inequalities in cancer genetic testing research, reporting that only 2 per cent of biomarker-based cancer trials are conducted in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), compared to almost 81 per cent in high-income countries.An international team of authors of the commission has warned of a "paradox of success" -- the rapid expansion of precision oncology has increased cost and complexity faster than the benefits it delivers at a population level.Global spending on cancer medicines is estimated to have risen by around 75% over the last five years, reaching approximately USD 252 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 441 billion by 2029, they have said. Also Read : What the study of the mutant gene behind aggressive adult leukaemia can offer for treatmentThe researchers analysed global data on clinical trials and genomic datasets, and conducted a survey of national cancer programmes.The team estimated that seven to eight million (70-80 lakh) people with cancer worldwide need standard-of-care molecular testing every year.However, the coverage remains far from universal, particularly in LMICs, it has said.For example, an estimated 3.14 lakh women with ovarian cancer are eligible for BRCA -- the breast cancer gene -- testing annually, yet around half do not receive it, a gap driven largely by a low testing coverage in LMICs, the researchers have said.To help health systems respond, the commission has proposed a framework for prioritising which molecular tests and matched therapies to implement, alongside a system-readiness assessment tool.It has also set out a workforce-competency framework and principles for responsible data-sharing.The commission has also put forth 10 core recommendations for an equitable, effective and responsible integration of precision oncology into cancer control and universal health coverage, and a phased implementation roadmap. Published - September 28, 2026 03:06 pm IST