The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) today proudly announces the inclusion of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a new Participating State. This partnership highlights a shared commitment to advancing cancer research and prevention initiatives within the kingdom.
Cancer poses a substantial public health challenge in Saudi Arabia, emerging as a top priority for research funding and intervention. According to the National Cancer Center’s most recent national cancer registry incidence report, there were an estimated 28,100 new cancer cases diagnosed in 2022, along with approximately 13,400 deaths attributed to the disease. These statistics, drawn from IARC’s comprehensive global database, reveal the urgent need for enhanced cancer control measures.
The data indicates that breast cancer remains the most prevalent form of cancer in the country, significantly impacting women’s health, while colorectal and thyroid cancers represent the next most common types affecting both genders. This alarming trend underscores the critical need for targeted research efforts and increased awareness to improve prevention and treatment strategies aimed at reducing the burden of cancer in Saudi Arabia.
