The number of people diagnosed with cancer increases with age, and that an aging population and increased number of cancer survivors will contribute to the increased cost. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Costs associated with cancer treatment are expected to exceed $245 billion by 2030, or nearly a 34% increase from 2015 billing, according to a new study.

The study published in the medical journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found the total costs varied by the type or location of the cancer, and the stage in which it was caught. Earlier treatment means lower costs, while end-of-life treatment often has the biggest cost.

"Rising health care expenditures are a burden for patients, and costs of cancer care has become a critical topic in patient-provider discussions to facilitate informed decision-making," said study author Angela Mariotto, chief of the Data Analytics Branch at the National Cancer Institute. "Studies quantifying and projecting costs can further facilitate those discussions. In addition, this type of research can help health policymakers better understand the issue of rising costs and can help health care providers better plan resource allocation."