Published in BMJ Global Health, this systematic review and meta-analysis examines the global prevalence of financial toxicity among patients with cancer, highlighting its significant burden on individuals and families. While previous studies have explored the financial strain associated with cancer treatment, findings have often been region-specific and inconsistent. By synthesising data from 35 observational studies covering 428,373 patients, this study provides a comprehensive global perspective on catastrophic health expenditures (CHEs) related to cancer care. The analysis reveals that 56.1% of patients with cancer experience CHEs, emphasising the urgent need for policy interventions to mitigate financial hardship.
The study identifies key risk factors contributing to financial toxicity, including large family size, low income, lack of health insurance, longer disease duration, older age, and multiple treatment requirements. Notably, higher education appears to offer a protective effect. These findings underscore the importance of expanding health insurance coverage, improving financial support mechanisms, and ensuring affordable cancer care to alleviate financial distress among patients worldwide.