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Most Popular Cancer: A Global Overview
Lung Cancer: The Leading Cancer Worldwide
Lung cancer consistently ranks as the most common cancer globally. In 1990, it accounted for 18% of all cancers in men worldwide and 21% in men from developed countries. By 2002, lung cancer remained the most commonly diagnosed cancer with 1.35 million new cases and was also the leading cause of cancer death, responsible for 1.18 million deaths. This trend continued in 2008, with lung cancer being the most diagnosed cancer (1.61 million cases) and the leading cause of cancer death (1.38 million deaths). In 2020, lung cancer was still among the top three most commonly diagnosed cancers (2.21 million cases) and the leading cause of cancer death (1.79 million deaths).
Breast Cancer: The Most Prevalent Cancer Among Women
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally. In 1990, it accounted for 21% of all cancers in women. By 2002, it was the second most commonly diagnosed cancer overall with 1.15 million new cases and had the highest prevalence with 4.4 million survivors up to five years following diagnosis. In 2008, breast cancer remained the second most diagnosed cancer worldwide with 1.38 million new cases. By 2020, it had become the most commonly diagnosed cancer globally with 2.26 million new cases.
Colorectal Cancer: A Common Cancer in Both Genders
Colorectal cancer is another prevalent cancer type. In 2002, it was the third most commonly diagnosed cancer with 1 million new cases. This trend continued in 2008, with colorectal cancer being the third most diagnosed cancer worldwide with 1.23 million new cases. In 2020, colorectal cancer remained among the top three most commonly diagnosed cancers.
Regional Variations in Cancer Incidence
The incidence of different cancers varies significantly by region. In developed countries, besides lung and breast cancers, colorectal and prostate cancers are also common. In developing countries, cancers of the cervix uteri and esophagus are more prevalent. These variations are largely due to differences in exposure to risk factors related to lifestyle and environment.
Conclusion
Lung cancer remains the most common and deadliest cancer worldwide, followed closely by breast cancer, which is the most prevalent among women. Colorectal cancer is also a significant concern globally. The incidence of these cancers varies by region, influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing effective cancer prevention and control strategies.
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