Cancer care faces a shortage of 100mn workers by 2050, study says

The world will need nearly 100 million more cancer workers by 2050, a new study warns.

The largest gaps will be among nurses and diagnostic specialists, particularly radiologists and pathologists, with Africa and Asia set to be the hardest hit.

The report, published by The Lancet Oncology Commission and presented at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting, warned that a shortage of well-trained personnel to deliver cancer care and conduct research remains a major obstacle to reducing global disparities.

All countries are affected by shortages

Based on current trends, the study projects a shortage of 99.9 million cancer workers by 2050. This encompasses individuals involved in research, regulatory and financial support systems, as well as the communities that benefit from and contribute to research.