Dr Raúl Murillo reflects on discussions led by a Latin American network examining the global cancer burden, with a focus on Latin America.

He explains how population ageing is a key driver of increasing cancer cases worldwide, alongside growing exposure to environmental, occupational, and behavioural risk factors such as obesity and physical inactivity.

Dr Murillo highlights important contrasts between high-income countries, where cancer mortality has declined for several cancers, and low- and middle-income countries, where both incidence and mortality continue to rise.

He discusses the persistent burden of infection-related cancers, including those linked to human papillomavirus and Helicobacter pylori, and emphasises prevention strategies targeting tobacco use and HPV infection.

The interview also addresses the role of screening for cervical, colorectal, and breast cancer, World Health Organisation initiatives on cervical and breast cancer control, and the growing challenge of ensuring cancer treatment remains affordable for all health systems.