Cancer is a group of diseases which involves abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body.
Cancer is a group of diseases which involves abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body.
Breast and lung cancers are the most common; colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide. In men, the top 3 cancers are lung, prostate, and colorectal, while in females, the most common type of cancer is breast cancer, followed by colorectal and lung. The types of cancers that occur most often in children are different from those seen in adults. Unlike cancer in adults, the vast majority of childhood cancers do not have a known cause. 10% of all children with cancer have a predisposition caused by genetic factors. Because it's generally not possible to prevent cancer in children, the most effective strategy is to focus on a prompt, correct diagnosis followed by effective therapy.
In 2019, there were an estimated 1,762,450 new cases in the US and 606,880 new deaths.
A cancer risk factor is anything which increases a person's chance of getting cancer. For example, the patient risk is doubled if her mother, sister, or daughter has had breast cancer and is tripled if two immediate relatives have had it. 5-10% of breast cancers are usually caused by specific hereditary gene mutations. Smoking is another risk factor; smokers are 15-30 times more likely to get or die from lung cancer than non-smokers. Exposure to radiation can increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
While several factors are contributing to the increase in cancer diagnoses, there are three main reasons for most cancer cases:
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Cancer primarily affects the senior population; 77% of all cancers are diagnosed with over 55 years old. Seniors are living decades longer than just a common century ago.
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Obesity opens the door to several types of cancer; breast, colon, pancreatic, and others.
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Certain cancer types are on the rise; HPV is the most common sexually transmitted virus. The high-risk types of this virus can cause cancer of the cervix. Skin cancer has increased since 2001. It is one of the most cancers which can be prevented. Sunburn is a key cancer skin risk factor.
Prevention of cancer is one of the most public health challenges of the 21st century. WHO Cancer Prevention Recommendations include changing dietary patterns, reducing alcohol consumption and stopping smoking, increasing physical activity, and maintaining body weight.
Scientists recommend eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, avoid obesity, alcohol, and limit processed meats. Avoid risky behaviors like sharing needles and practice safe sex. Getting vaccinated with HBV and HPV vaccines and get regular medical check-ups and screening.
