People that died from cancer
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Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that cancer death rates have been decreasing over time, with significant declines among black men, but the total number of cancer deaths continues to increase slightly due to an aging and expanding population.
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Cancer Mortality and Survivorship: Key Insights
Rising Cancer Mortality Rates in the United States
Historical Trends in Cancer Deaths
The number of deaths due to cancer in the United States has seen a significant increase over the years. In 1984, cancer claimed 453,450 lives, a record high at the time. This trend is expected to continue due to population growth unless there are significant changes in cancer mortality risk. The total Person-Years of Life Lost (PYLL) due to cancer also increased from 5,303,668 in 1970 to 6,881,281 in 1984, indicating a growing burden of cancer on society.
Recent Cancer Statistics
In 2014, it was projected that 585,720 people would die from cancer in the United States. This figure reflects a slight decline in cancer death rates over the previous two decades, from a peak of 215.1 deaths per 100,000 population in 1991 to 171.8 in 2010. This decline translates to approximately 1,340,400 avoided cancer deaths during this period.
Causes of Death Among Cancer Patients
Primary and Secondary Causes
Cancer patients often die from a variety of causes. A study reviewing death certificates from 1973 to 2012 found that deaths due to the primary cancer (index-cancer) decreased significantly for several cancer types, including testis, kidney, and breast cancer. However, deaths from non-cancer causes, such as heart disease, have become more prevalent, especially among patients with cancers of the colorectum, bladder, and prostate. Infections, organ failure, and complications like pneumonia and septicemia are also common causes of death among cancer patients.
Cancer Survivors and Non-Cancer Deaths
With advancements in early detection and treatment, many cancer survivors now live longer. However, a significant portion of these survivors eventually die from non-cancer-related causes. For instance, among cancer survivors, 41.8% died from cancer, while 48.9% died from other diseases. The likelihood of dying from non-cancer causes increases with the duration since the cancer diagnosis.
Childhood Cancer Survivors
Late Mortality Trends
For childhood cancer survivors, late mortality has decreased over recent decades. Among those diagnosed in the 1970s and 1980s, 18% of five-year survivors died within the next 25 years. However, modifications in cancer treatments have led to a reduction in late mortality, particularly from subsequent neoplasms, cardiac causes, and pulmonary causes. This improvement is attributed to reduced exposure to harmful treatments like cranial and abdominal radiotherapy.
Quality of Life and Palliative Care
Living with Advanced Cancer
Cancer significantly impacts the quality of life, especially for those with advanced disease. Patients often experience multiple symptoms, including pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Despite the desire of many to die at home, most cancer patients in Europe die in hospitals due to various factors, including the availability of palliative care services. Effective palliative care is crucial for improving the quality of life for cancer patients and addressing their complex needs.
Conclusion
Cancer remains a leading cause of death, with significant impacts on both mortality rates and the quality of life for patients and survivors. While advancements in treatment have improved survival rates and reduced late mortality, especially among childhood cancer survivors, the burden of cancer continues to grow due to population dynamics. Addressing the diverse causes of death among cancer patients and enhancing palliative care services are essential steps in improving outcomes and quality of life for those affected by this disease.
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