Most common types of cancer
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Major Cancer Types: Carcinomas, Sarcomas, Leukemias, and Lymphomas
The most common types of cancer are grouped based on the tissue or organ where they originate. The four main categories are carcinomas, sarcomas, leukemias, and lymphomas. Carcinomas are the most prevalent and start in the epithelial cells that line the skin and internal organs. Examples include breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers. Sarcomas begin in bone, muscle, or connective tissue. Leukemias are cancers of the blood, specifically affecting white blood cells, and lymphomas start in the lymphatic system, such as lymph nodes and spleen. Each of these types can be further divided into subtypes based on their specific characteristics and locations in the body 135.
Most Common Cancers Worldwide: Lung, Breast, Stomach, Colorectal, and Prostate
Globally, the most common cancers are lung, breast, stomach, colorectal, and prostate cancers. Lung cancer is the leading type among men and is also very common in developed countries. Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women. Stomach cancer ranks high, especially in certain regions, and colorectal and prostate cancers are also among the top types in developed countries. In developing countries, cervical and esophageal cancers are also significant 235.
Common Cancer Types in Adults
In adults, the most frequently diagnosed cancers are:
- Prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers in men
- Breast, lung, and colorectal cancers in women
These cancers account for a large proportion of new cancer cases and cancer-related deaths each year 25.
Common Cancer Types in Children
In children, the most common cancers are different from those in adults. Leukemias are the most frequent, accounting for over 40% of childhood cancers. Lymphomas and tumors of the central nervous system are also common. Other types include sarcomas, kidney tumors, and neuroblastoma. Carcinomas are rare in children, while embryonal tumors and sarcomas are more typical 58.
Subtypes of Common Cancers
- Lung Cancer: The most common types are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma .
- Stomach Cancer: The most frequent type is adenocarcinoma, followed by colloid cancer and, less commonly, squamous cell carcinoma .
- Leukemia: There are four major types: acute lymphocytic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, and chronic myelogenous leukemia .
Genetic Factors in Common Cancers
Many common cancers, including melanoma, pancreatic, prostate, kidney, ovarian, esophageal, endometrial, breast, gastric, and lung cancers, have a significant inherited genetic component, even in cases considered "sporadic" or non-hereditary .
Conclusion
The most common types of cancer worldwide are lung, breast, stomach, colorectal, and prostate cancers, with variations depending on age, gender, and geographic region. In children, leukemia and brain tumors are most frequent. Carcinomas are the most prevalent cancer type overall, followed by sarcomas, leukemias, and lymphomas. Understanding these patterns helps guide prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for cancer across different populations 12345678.
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