Background: While cancer stands as a prominent global contributor to mortality, the BRICS countries, which contribute a considerable proportion of the world’s economy, also account for a substantial proportion of global cancer-related deaths. The study aims to compile data on the incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of leading cancers in BRICS countries to assess any variations in these parameters.

Methods: Indicators such as the age-standardised incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardised mortality rate (ASMR) were abstracted from GLOBOCAN 2022. Global Burden of Disease 2019 provided an overview of DALYs. Additionally, ‘Cancer Tomorrow’ provided projections for future cancer rates up to 2050.

Results: The findings revealed that Russia had the highest ASIR for both sexes. Among males, leading cancer sites included prostate, lung and colorectum, while India stood out with lip and oral cavity cancer as the primary site. Breast cancer dominated among females in all BRICS countries, except China, where lung cancer took precedence. South Africa recorded the highest ASMR for both sexes, with Russia leading among males and South Africa among females. Lung cancer has been the leading cause of death in all countries except India, where breast cancer leads. Trachea, bronchus and lung cancers contributed the most to DALYs, except in India, where breast cancer prevailed. South Africa and India are anticipated to have the highest increase in new cancer cases and deaths in future.

Conclusion: Breast and lung cancers accounted for the highest incidence, mortality and DALYs in females and males, respectively. Although the BRICS countries anticipate sustained economic growth and have viable cancer control plans, it is essential to investigate cancer risk factors and health systems influencing cancer incidence and outcomes.