Cancer frequency by country
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Global Cancer Frequency by Country
Introduction to Global Cancer Statistics
Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with varying incidence and mortality rates across different countries and regions. The GLOBOCAN estimates provide comprehensive data on the global burden of cancer, highlighting the disparities in cancer frequency and outcomes worldwide.
Cancer Incidence and Mortality Rates
Global Overview
In 2018, there were an estimated 18.1 million new cancer cases and 9.6 million cancer deaths worldwide. Lung cancer was the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death, followed by breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers for incidence, and colorectal, stomach, and liver cancers for mortality. By 2020, the number of new cancer cases had risen to 19.3 million, with nearly 10 million cancer deaths. Female breast cancer had surpassed lung cancer as the most commonly diagnosed cancer, although lung cancer remained the leading cause of cancer death.
Regional Variations
The frequency and types of cancer vary significantly by region. High-income countries (HICs) generally have higher incidence rates for cancers such as lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate, while low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have higher rates of stomach, liver, esophageal, and cervical cancers. For instance, in 1990, lung cancer was the most common cancer globally, particularly in developed countries, while stomach cancer was more prevalent in developing regions.
Economic Development and Cancer Patterns
The degree of economic development influences cancer patterns. In more developed countries, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among males, and breast cancer among females. In less developed countries, liver and stomach cancers are more common among males, and cervical cancer among females. The incidence of cancers related to lifestyle factors, such as smoking and physical inactivity, is increasing in economically transitioning countries, leading to higher rates of lung and colorectal cancers.
Specific Cancer Trends
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women globally. In 2020, it accounted for 2.3 million new cases, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. The incidence of breast cancer is higher in transitioned countries compared to transitioning countries, but mortality rates are higher in the latter due to limited access to early detection and treatment.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer remains a major health burden, being the leading cause of cancer death globally. In 2020, it caused an estimated 1.8 million deaths. The incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer are higher in high-income countries, although rates are increasing in several low- and middle-income countries due to rising smoking rates.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is another significant cancer type, with high incidence and mortality rates in both developed and developing countries. In 2020, it was the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer remains a major health issue in less developed countries, where it is one of the leading causes of cancer death among women. The disparity in cervical cancer mortality rates between transitioned and transitioning countries highlights the need for improved screening and vaccination programs in the latter .
Conclusion
The global burden of cancer is substantial and varies widely by region and economic development. High-income countries face high incidence rates for several common cancers, while low- and middle-income countries bear a disproportionate burden of infection-related cancers. Efforts to improve cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment, particularly in transitioning countries, are critical to addressing these disparities and reducing the global cancer burden.
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