Millions of Cancer Patients Lack Access to Essential Genetic Tests, Global Report Finds

Seven to eight million cancer patients worldwide need standard‑of‑care molecular testing each year, yet most do not receive it, a new Lancet Oncology commission reports. The analysis shows stark inequality: only about 2% of biomarker‑based cancer trials occur in low‑ and middle‑income countries, while high‑income nations conduct almost 81% of such studies. Global spending on cancer medicines has jumped roughly 75% in the past five years, reaching about US$252 billion in 2024 and projected to hit US$441 billion by 2029. Researchers examined worldwide clinical‑trial data, genomic datasets and surveyed national cancer programmes to reach these conclusions. In low‑ and middle‑income settings, testing coverage remains far below universal levels. For instance, an estimated 314,000 women with ovarian cancer qualify for BRCA testing annually, but around half miss it, largely due to limited access in these regions. To address the gap, the commission proposes a prioritisation framework for molecular tests and matched therapies, a system‑readiness assessment tool, a workforce‑competency guide and principles for responsible data‑sharing. It also outlines ten core recommendations and a phased roadmap to embed precision oncology into cancer control and universal health coverage.

Context

The report highlights that while precision oncology promises targeted treatments, its benefits are unevenly distributed, especially where health systems lack resources and infrastructure, reinforcing existing health inequities.