As Bangladesh grapples with a rising tide of cancer cases, the dual challenges of affordability and late-stage diagnosis remain significant hurdles. In this insightful Q&A, Professor Dr Md. Mofazzel Hossain (Lt. Col. Retd), Chief Consultant of Medical Oncology at BRB Hospitals Limited, explores the shifting landscape of oncology in the country.

As World Cancer Day 2026 underscores the theme “United by Unique”, attention is turning to how cancer care systems respond to a simple truth: no two patients experience the disease in the same way.

Cancer incidence in Bangladesh is rising and may more than double by 2050 if preventive measures are not strengthened.

National Cancer Statistics, 2022

In Bangladesh, the reality for thousands of families is the overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial burden of a cancer diagnosis.

Bangladesh is currently at a critical crossroads in its fight against cancer. According to IARC–GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates, the nation faces approximately 167,256 new cancer cases and 116,598 deaths annually.

With a population of about 167.9 million, Bangladesh recorded 167,256 new cancer cases and 116,598 cancer deaths.