Introduction: The Deadliest Cancers
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. With the increasing cases of cancer, it’s essential to understand the types of cancers that pose the most risk to our lives. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that cancers such as lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers were the most prevalent types worldwide. However, specific cancers pose a higher risk of death than others. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 10 deadliest cancers and their impact on human health.
Lung and Bronchial Cancer: The Topmost Deadliest Cancer
Lung and bronchial cancer have been identified as the most fatal cancers worldwide. This type of cancer accounts for approximately 1.7 million deaths globally, with the United States recording over 228,000 deaths as of 2020. Common symptoms associated with this cancer include chronic coughing, chest pain, and severe weight loss. Multiple factors contribute to developing lung cancer, including smoking, exposure to environmental pollutants, and family history.
Colon and Rectal Cancer: The Second Most Deadly Cancer
Colon and rectal cancer takes the second spot among the 10 deadliest cancers globally. The cancer affects the colon, rectum or both and is responsible for approximately 880,000 deaths worldwide. In the US alone, colorectal cancer leads to over 53,000 deaths yearly. Common symptoms of colon and rectal cancer include changes in bowel movements, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain. However, screening tests such as colonoscopy can assist in the identification of cancerous cells at an earlier stage.
Breast Cancer: A Silent Killer Among Women
Breast cancer is the leading type of cancer diagnosed among women globally. It’s the third deadliest cancer and responsible for approximately 685,000 deaths around the world. The US reports over 42,000 breast cancer deaths yearly, with women above 50 years of age particularly at risk. Early detection of breast cancer through self-examination, mammography and ultrasound screening can help improve survival rates.
Pancreatic Cancer: The Fastest Spreading Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive cancer that spreads rapidly to other body parts. The cancer affects the pancreas, and common symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, and jaundice. Pancreatic cancer takes the fourth spot with a mortality rate of 8.9%. Though the survival rates remain quite low, early diagnosis through CT scans and MRIs can help improve a patient’s chances of survival.
Prostate Cancer: A Leading Cause of Cancer Death in Men
Prostate cancer is a prevalent cancer in men worldwide, and it ranks fifth among the deadliest cancers globally. With approximately 359,000 deaths yearly, prostate cancer affects men over the age of 50. Common symptoms include frequent urination and difficulty in urinating. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests can aid in early diagnosis and treatment.
Leukemia and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Blood-Related Cancers on the List
Leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are blood-related cancers responsible for approximately 635,000 deaths globally. Leukemia affects the blood and bone marrow, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma affects the lymphatic system. Common symptoms of leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma include fatigue, fever, and unexplained weight loss.
Liver and Intrahepatic Bile Duct Cancer: The Eighth Most Deadly Cancer
Liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer round up the list of the top 10 deadliest cancers. The cancer affects the liver and bile duct and claims approximately 782,000 lives worldwide, with a mortality rate of 9.1%. Symptoms of liver cancer include abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss. Risk factors include a family history of liver cancer, chronic infections such as hepatitis, and excessive alcohol consumption.
In conclusion, the top 10 deadliest cancers have one thing in common – early detection and diagnosis is critical in improving the survival rates. Some cancers such as breast cancer and prostate cancer have screening tests that can aid in early detection before the cancer spreads. It’s vital to maintain healthy lifestyle practices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoidance of tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of developing cancer.
