Can we prevent the rise of cancer in an ageing world?

Ideas & Philosophy · Published 11 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: While some cancers are entirely preventable, others remain beyond our current reach. As global populations age, the incidence of cancer is expected to rise steadily. The challenge lies in balancing individual lifestyle choices with the responsibility of the state to intervene for the public good.

The landscape of cancer prevention is uneven. According to Cancer Research UK, approximately 42% of cancers in the UK are preventable, though this figure may be even higher in other nations. Some forms, such as lung or cervical cancers, are already considered completely or largely preventable. Conversely, for others like prostate cancer, there are currently no prevention strategies available. For certain types of cancer, including those that are hardest to treat, implementing preventative measures is relatively simple. However, for many other cases, success depends on people making significant changes to their daily habits.

Historically, the perception of cancer has shifted dramatically. When Gresham College was founded in 1597, cancer was a rare occurrence; Bills of Mortality from that era show that less than 1% of deaths were attributed to the disease. As infectious diseases and cardiovascular deaths have declined, the relative importance of cancer has grown. This shift is compounded by the fact that age remains the single biggest risk factor for most cancers—a factor that cannot be modified.

Because of these ageing populations, cancer incidence is expected to rise inexorably unless prevention efforts succeed. This creates a complex intersection of science and politics. A central debate persists across the political spectrum regarding the role of the state: should governments interfere in individual lives to promote health, or should they respect the tradition of minimal state intervention? While prevention is often more effective than cure, it frequently requires lifestyle modifications that individuals may be reluctant to adopt. This tension between state authority and personal liberty is a fundamental question within all political traditions. Consequently, the debate over whether to prioritise public health or individual autonomy remains a central concern for modern governance.

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