Most deadly types of cancer
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Most Deadly Types of Cancer: Global Mortality and Survival Rates
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with certain types being especially deadly due to high mortality rates and poor long-term survival. The most lethal cancers are often those that are common, aggressive, and difficult to detect early.
Lung, Liver, and Stomach Cancer: Leading Causes of Cancer Death
Lung cancer is consistently identified as the most deadly cancer globally, responsible for the highest number of cancer-related deaths in both men and women. Liver and stomach cancers also rank among the top killers, contributing significantly to global cancer mortality. These three cancers are the leading causes of cancer death in many countries, including China, where lung, liver, and stomach cancers account for the majority of cancer fatalities 12.
Pancreatic, Esophageal, and Brain Cancers: Poorest Prognosis
Pancreatic cancer stands out for its extremely poor prognosis, with a five-year survival rate typically below 10%. Esophageal and liver cancers also have very low survival rates, often less than 20% at five years. Brain cancers, such as glioblastoma multiforme, are also among the most deadly, with limited treatment options and low survival rates 136.
Colorectal Cancer: High Mortality and Global Impact
Colorectal cancer is the second or fourth most deadly cancer worldwide, depending on the region, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths annually. While early-stage colorectal cancer can be curable, late detection and recurrence contribute to its high mortality. The global burden of colorectal cancer is expected to rise in the coming decades 58.
Melanoma: Deadly Skin Cancer
Among skin cancers, melanoma is the most aggressive and deadly form. Although it can be cured if detected early, advanced melanoma is highly resistant to therapy and has a high mortality rate 710.
Ovarian, Stomach, and Myeloma: Other Notably Deadly Cancers
Ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, and myeloma also have low survival rates and are responsible for a significant proportion of cancer deaths. These cancers often lack effective early detection methods, contributing to their lethality .
Cancers with Better Prognosis
In contrast, some common cancers such as prostate and thyroid cancer have much better outcomes, with five-year survival rates approaching 100% .
Conclusion
The most deadly types of cancer worldwide include lung, liver, stomach, pancreatic, esophageal, brain, colorectal, and melanoma. These cancers are characterized by high mortality rates, poor long-term survival, and often limited early detection or effective treatment options. Addressing these deadly cancers requires continued research, improved screening, and better access to effective therapies to reduce their global impact 123567810.
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