The most common types of cancer in the world
Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, each type of cancer has its own characteristics and ways of manifesting itself.
In this blog, we will address the most common types of cancer in the world today to better understand these diseases and their impact on the population.
Lung cancer
Lung cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the lung.
It is mainly caused by tobacco use, but it can also be related to exposure to chemicals and genetic factors.
Symptoms can include persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and unexplained weight loss.
Lung cancer accounts for approximately 12.2% of all cancers and is one of the deadliest cancers with 1.8 million deaths per year.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer originates in the cells of the breast, it can be perceived as a lump in the breast, changes in the shape or size of the breast, redness of the skin or discharge from the nipple.
Early detection through self-examination and regular mammograms is critical to successful treatment.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with a prevalence of 30.7% and more than 685,000 deaths annually.
Colorectal cancer
This type of cancer can affect both the colon and rectum, and usually develops from precancerous polyps.
Symptoms may include: changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.
Early diagnosis using tests such as colonoscopy can help prevent and treat this type of cancer early.
Colorectal cancer accounts for 9.6% of cancer cases in women and 10.6% in men.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer originates in the male prostate gland, being more common in older men.
Although they may not have symptoms in the early stages, as it progresses, the patient may experience signs such as: difficulty urinating, weak or interrupted urine flow, and frequent need to urinate.
Early detection through blood tests and digital rectal examination is important for early diagnosis.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men with a prevalence of 14.5%; however, it has a high survival rate.
Liver cancer
Liver cancer develops in liver cells and can be linked to cirrhosis, hepatitis B or C, excessive alcohol consumption, and other factors.
Symptoms may include: abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, and yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Early detection and prompt treatment are critical to improving prognosis.
Liver cancer accounts for 6.6% of cancer deaths in women and 7.0% in men.
Stomach cancer
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, occurs in the cells of the stomach lining, it usually manifests itself through symptoms such as: abdominal pain, loss of appetite, indigestion, nausea and weight loss.
Like the other most common cancers in the world, early detection and correct treatment can significantly improve your survival rates.
Stomach cancer affects 6.4% of women and 10.6% of men, with a high incidence in certain regions.
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is a neoplasm that starts in the cells of the cervix (lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina).
It is mainly caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV).
The Pap test, also known as cervical cytology, is a test commonly used to detect abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix.
Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in 23 countries, with an estimated 570,000 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed worldwide each year.