The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a significant increase in cancer cases and fatalities in Bangladesh between 2018 and 2022, with an 11% increase in reported cases and an 8% increase in cancer-related deaths. This increase is a cause for concern, as the country lacks a national cancer registry, impeding effective monitoring and management of the disease despite having a National Cancer Control Strategy. Environmental, lifestyle, and healthcare system-related issues have contributed to the rise in cancer rates in Bangladesh. Research indicates that lifestyle factors play a significant role in the incidence of cancer and that preventive measures can promote healthy lifestyles. To address the challenges faced in Bangladesh, policymakers are recommended to implement extensive public health strategies, enhance healthcare access, invest in research and infrastructure, promote preventive measures, provide affordable and accessible treatment options, support caregivers, and engage in international collaboration. Additionally, addressing physician shortages, sociocultural factors, partial privatization, and out-of-pocket expenses is crucial for developing effective national e-health policies and improving access to rural healthcare. 

The increasing incidence of cancer in Bangladesh is a concerning trend, with projections indicating more than doubling of cancer cases by 2050 compared to 2022. Several factors have contributed to this trend. First, continuing global demographic and epidemiologic transitions signal an ever-increasing cancer burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) (Ferlay et al., 2014). Additionally, lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, obesity, and physical inactivity are modifiable causes of cancer that generate the most disease (Colditz et al., 2012). Furthermore, environmental factors, including air pollution, have been identified to contribute to cancer incidence, with air pollution causing 8% of all deaths worldwide in 2015 (Yan et al., 2018).

Specific factors have been identified in Bangladesh. A study in Bangladesh found an association between breast cancer and hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and obesity in Bangladeshi women (Islam et al., 2022). Moreover, climate change issues, including coastal and riverine floods, high tidal surges, and saltwater intrusion, are likely to affect Bangladesh's vital freshwater resources, potentially contributing to the cancer burden (Haque & Nahar, 2023).

To effectively address and mitigate this alarming trend by 2050, policymakers in Bangladesh must implement comprehensive strategies. These may include public health interventions to reduce tobacco use, promote healthy weight and physical activity, and address environmental factors, such as air pollution. Additionally, there is a need for improved cancer screening and early detection programs as well as increased awareness and education about cancer risk factors and symptoms, particularly targeting women, given the rising frequency and high mortality rate of breast cancer in Bangladesh (Sarker et al., 2022; Afaya et al., 2022; Islam et al., 2022). Strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on freshwater resources and environmental pollution are essential.

In terms of preparedness, Bangladesh faces significant challenges in dealing with the anticipated doubling of cancer cases by 2050. The country must strengthen its healthcare infrastructure, improve access to cancer care services, and enhance its capacity for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, there is a need for investment in research and surveillance to understand the specific epidemiological patterns of cancer in Bangladesh and tailor interventions accordingly (Hossain et al., 2016).

The increasing incidence of cancer in Bangladesh is influenced by a complex interplay of factors including demographic transitions, lifestyle choices, environmental pollution, and specific health conditions. Addressing this trend requires a multifaceted approach that includes public health interventions, improved healthcare infrastructure, and targeted awareness and education programs. Bangladesh faces significant challenges in preparing for the anticipated doubling of cancer cases by 2050 and will require substantial investments and strategic planning to effectively address this public health issue.

Investing in cancer research and infrastructure is crucial for addressing the cancer burden in Bangladesh and for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Funding from research institutions, establishing cancer registries, and enhancing laboratory and clinical facilities are essential steps toward achieving this goal. The development of infrastructure, including the establishment of cancer treatment centers and radiation therapy facilities, is vital for providing high-quality care to cancer patients. Policymakers must prioritize the implementation of preventive measures and public awareness campaigns to reduce cancer incidence in Bangladesh. These measures may include promoting healthy lifestyle choices; emphasizing the importance of early detection and screening for common cancers such as breast, cervical, and oral cancers; and implementing cost-effective strategies such as subsidizing cancer medications and expanding health insurance coverage for cancer care. Additionally, providing psychosocial support programs, counseling services, and financial assistance to caregivers and family members of patients with cancer is crucial for alleviating their burden. Bangladesh can enhance its capacity to tackle the cancer burden by collaborating with global cancer research and treatment institutions, participating in international clinical trials, and exchanging knowledge through conferences and workshops. International organizations and best practices can help in this endeavor, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for the people of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh's growing cancer burden is exacerbated by environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and insufficient healthcare infrastructure. To address this issue, policymakers should implement evidence-based strategies such as developing comprehensive public health policies, investing in healthcare infrastructure, promoting preventive measures, ensuring accessible and affordable cancer treatment, supporting caregivers and families, and fostering international collaboration.

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