Leading causes of cancer
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Global Cancer Burden and Leading Cancer Types
Cancer is a major cause of death worldwide, with its burden increasing due to population growth, aging, and the spread of risk factors such as smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. In 2012, there were about 14.1 million new cancer cases and 8.2 million deaths globally, with the majority occurring in less developed countries 123. The most common cancers differ by sex and region. For men, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, while for women, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed and the leading cause of cancer death in many regions 123. Other significant cancers include colorectal, prostate, liver, stomach, and cervical cancers, with their prevalence varying between developed and developing countries 123.
Lung Cancer: The Top Cause of Cancer Death
Lung cancer stands out as the leading cause of cancer death worldwide for both men and women 123578. Tobacco smoking is the primary risk factor, responsible for up to 90% of lung cancer cases, but other factors such as radon exposure, air pollution, occupational hazards (like asbestos), and genetic predispositions also contribute 578. The incidence of lung cancer is rising in developing countries due to increased tobacco use and industrialization . Notably, lung cancer in never-smokers, especially among Asian women, is also increasing .
Breast, Colorectal, Prostate, Liver, and Stomach Cancers
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and a leading cause of cancer death, particularly in less developed countries 123. Colorectal cancer is a major cause of cancer death in both men and women, especially in more developed countries 1236. Prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer incidence among men . Liver and stomach cancers are particularly significant in less developed countries, contributing to high mortality rates 1236.
Cervical Cancer and Other Region-Specific Cancers
Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer death among women in less developed countries, largely due to limited access to screening and vaccination 123. Other cancers with high incidence and mortality in specific regions include esophageal, lip and oral cavity, and nasopharyngeal cancers .
Major Risk Factors for Leading Cancers
The main risk factors for the leading causes of cancer include:
- Tobacco use: Strongly linked to lung, colorectal, stomach, and liver cancers 1578.
- Overweight/obesity and physical inactivity: Associated with breast and colorectal cancers .
- Infections: Hepatitis B and C viruses are major causes of liver cancer, while human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to cervical cancer 146.
- Alcohol consumption: Responsible for a significant proportion of cancer deaths globally, especially in younger adults .
- Environmental and occupational exposures: Such as radon, asbestos, and air pollution, particularly for lung cancer 57.
Prevention and Control
A substantial portion of cancer cases and deaths could be prevented by applying effective prevention measures, including tobacco control, vaccination (for liver and cervical cancers), reducing alcohol consumption, promoting physical activity, and early detection through screening 139. Addressing these risk factors and improving access to healthcare are crucial for reducing the global cancer burden.
Conclusion
Lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, liver, stomach, and cervical cancers are the leading causes of cancer incidence and death worldwide. The main drivers are tobacco use, infections, obesity, alcohol consumption, and environmental exposures. Prevention strategies targeting these risk factors, along with early detection and improved treatment, are essential to reduce cancer mortality globally 12356789.
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