Most fatal cancers
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Most Fatal Cancers: An Overview
Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors
Keywords: Brain tumors, CNS tumors, glioblastoma, survival rates
Brain and other central nervous system (CNS) tumors are among the most fatal cancers, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality in the United States. Despite a decline in malignant brain tumor incidence rates by 0.8% annually from 2008 to 2017, the incidence has increased among children and adolescents by 0.5% to 0.7% per year. Males and non-Hispanic White individuals have the highest incidence rates for malignant brain tumors, while nonmalignant tumors are more common in females and non-Hispanic Black individuals. The five-year relative survival rate for all malignant brain tumors has improved from 23% to 36% between 1975 and 2015, with glioblastoma showing minimal improvement from 4% to 7%.
Gastric and Esophageal Cancers
Keywords: Gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, survival rates, Nordic countries
Gastric cancer (GC) and esophageal cancer (EC) are also among the most fatal cancers, with significant challenges in improving survival rates. Data from the Nordic countries, which have high-quality national cancer registries, show that these cancers remain a major clinical challenge despite advancements in healthcare. Gastric cancer is the third most deadly cancer globally, with an estimated 783,000 deaths in 2018. The incidence and mortality rates are highly variable by region and are influenced by factors such as diet and Helicobacter pylori infection. Esophageal cancer, particularly esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, is predominant in regions like China and has a poor prognosis due to its rapid progression.
Lung, Liver, and Pancreatic Cancers
Keywords: Lung cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, mortality rates
Lung, liver, and pancreatic cancers are among the top three most deadly cancers worldwide. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality, followed by liver and stomach cancers. Pancreatic cancer, in particular, has the highest case-fatality rate among major cancers, emphasizing the need for identifying modifiable risk factors such as dietary patterns to reduce its burden .
Colorectal Cancer
Keywords: Colorectal cancer, incidence, mortality, risk factors
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most deadly and fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer globally, with nearly 2 million new cases and about 1 million deaths expected in 2018. The incidence of CRC is rising worldwide, especially in developing countries adopting a "western" lifestyle. Despite advances in early detection and treatment, CRC remains highly lethal, particularly due to high recurrence rates and cancer drug resistance .
Ovarian Cancer
Keywords: Ovarian cancer, high-grade serous ovarian cancer, mortality rates
Among female reproductive tract malignancies, ovarian cancer is the most frequently fatal. High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the predominant subtype and is responsible for a significant share of ovarian cancer fatalities. Despite scientific advancements, the mortality rates for ovarian cancer have remained stagnant since around 1980, highlighting the need for better understanding and treatment strategies.
Conclusion
In summary, brain and CNS tumors, gastric and esophageal cancers, lung, liver, pancreatic, colorectal, and ovarian cancers are among the most fatal cancers. These cancers pose significant challenges in terms of early detection, treatment, and survival rates. Continued research and improved healthcare strategies are essential to reduce the burden of these deadly diseases.
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