A new study published in Radiotherapy & Oncology reveals how rising cancer rates are outpacing access to essential treatment. Led by Australian researchers with colleagues from around the world, the analysis shows that radiotherapy services are not growing quickly enough to meet the increasing demand. This leaves millions at risk of missing out on care.

Cancer diagnoses are rising rapidly in all regions. By 2050, more than 35 million people are expected to be diagnosed each year, almost double the number recorded in 2022. Since radiotherapy is recommended at some point for roughly half of all cancer patients, access to modern treatment is a key part of effective cancer care. The study shows, however, that many areas still cannot provide this treatment safely or consistently.

In 2022, about 4.5 million people who needed radiotherapy did not receive it. The main reason is the limited number of treatment machines. In high-income countries, one radiotherapy machine typically treats fewer than 400 patients a year. In some low-income countries, the same machine is expected to serve more than 6,000 patients, making timely treatment impossible. Nearly 30 countries still have no radiotherapy services at all.

The human impact of these gaps is significant. The study estimates that almost 300,000 deaths in 2022 were linked to lack of access to radiotherapy. If things do not change, this figure could rise to nearly half a million lives lost each year by 2050. Many more patients will miss the chance for their cancer to be controlled at its source, affecting survival, quality of life, and increasing the need for more complex care later.

Low- and middle-income countries are the most affected. These regions often face delayed cancer diagnosis, limited infrastructure, and fewer trained staff, yet they also stand to gain the most from increased access. The study notes that improvements in machine availability, workforce training, and treatment techniques—like offering radiotherapy in fewer sessions—could make a significant difference.

Meeting this need will require coordinated efforts from governments, health systems, international agencies, and advocates. Expanding radiotherapy capacity is possible and represents one of the most effective investments in cancer care. Several global programs are already helping countries develop their services, but the pace of expansion is still far behind what is needed.

For patients and families, the message is clear: radiotherapy saves lives. Ensuring that people can access this treatment, regardless of where they live, is crucial for improving cancer outcomes in the coming decades.