Cancer is a major public health problem and represents substantial disparities worldwide. This study reported estimates for 36 cancers across 185 countries by incidence, mortality, 5-year prevalence, mortality-to-prevalence ratio (MPR), and mortality-to-incidence ratio (MIR) to examine its association with human development index (HDI) and gross national income (GNI). Data were collected from the GLOBOCAN 2020. MPR and MIR were calculated by sex, age group, country, and cancer type and then summarized into totals. Segi’s population and global cancer spectrum were used to calculate age- and type-standardized ratios. Correlation analyses were conducted to assess associations. Results showed that breast cancer was the most diagnosed cancer globally. Low- and middle-income countries had high MPR and MIR. Cancers of esophagus, pancreas, and liver had the highest ratios. Males and the older population had the highest ratios. HDI and GNI were positively correlated with incidence and mortality but negatively correlated with MPR/MIR. Substantial disparities in cancer burden were observed among 36 cancer types across 185 countries. Socioeconomic development may contribute to narrowing these disparities, and tailored strategies are crucial for regional- and country-specific cancer control.

HONG KONG (8 January 2025) — Recognised for his leading position in digital medicine, Professor Yu Xinge from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) was honoured with the 3rd Zhong Nanshan Youth Science and Technology Innovation Award. This prestigious accolade recognises exceptional young scientists in medicine and life sciences.

Inflammation of the heart muscle, also known as myocarditis, can be caused by various viral infections. Parvovirus B19, known for inducing rashes in children and infants, has recently drawn attention as a potential risk factor for myocarditis in infants. In this research letter, researchers study and report cases of myocarditis in preschool students caused by parvovirus B19 infections. The letter aims to shed light on the detrimental effect of the disease to increase awareness.