The cancer epidemic Global significance of cancer and the situation in oncological imaging

A significant increase in the incidence of cancer is expected worldwide. In Europe, cancer will soon be the leading cause of death, ahead of cardiovascular disease. Concerted efforts at the scientific, medical, societal, and political levels are required to address this problem on a global scale. High-quality oncological imaging is of particular importance in this regard. Access to it has been shown to have a significant impact on quality of care and survival. Imaging is an essential component of screening and early detection. In clinical oncology, imaging is essential for multidisciplinary diagnostics and personalized therapy. Likewise, imaging is necessary in translational and clinical research. Imaging techniques are also themselves the subject of research and development and, associated with this, are also of great importance as an economic factor. This article aims to provide insights into the global problem of oncology and the contribution that oncological imaging can make to its management.

Automated summary

A significant increase in cancer incidence is expected globally, with cancer becoming the leading cause of death in Europe, surpassing cardiovascular disease. A comprehensive approach involving science, medicine, society, and politics is required to address this global problem. High-quality oncological imaging plays a crucial role, as it has been proven to significantly impact care quality and survival rates. Imaging is essential in screening, early detection, multidisciplinary diagnostics, personalized therapy, translational, and clinical research. Moreover, imaging techniques and their development are also of great economic importance. This article aims to provide insights into the global oncology problem and the role of oncological imaging in its management.