The Most Common Kinds of Cancer - An Overview

Some types of cancer are more common than others. At least, this is what statistical data shows. It is worth learning more about the most common kinds of cancer, so that you can take more adequate measures for prevention.

Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and in many countries worldwide. It has been estimated that over 220,000 people will be diagnosed with this condition in 2010 alone. The disease will cost the life of over 157,000 sufferers. Apart from being common, this condition is highly lethal as well. What is important is that the major cause of lung cancer has been identified. Smoking is responsible for over 85% of all cases of this type of cancer. For this reason, nonsmoking is the most effective way for prevention.

Prostate cancer is another one of the most common types of cancer. Over 217,000 men are expected to be diagnosed with this condition in America in 2010. Over 32,000 deaths from this disease are expected to occur. The statistics show that it has high rates in Western countries and significantly lower rates in developing ones. Prostate cancer is slow to develop, so regular screening and rectal exams, in particular, are effective forms of prevention.

Breast cancer is quite common, especially in Western countries. It is estimated that over 208,000 new cases will be diagnosed in the United State in 2010 only, with nearly 2,000 of the patients expected to be male. The estimated deaths from this disease are over 40,000. Regular self-exams and screening are the best option for prevention. It has been suggested that nonsmoking, healthy diet and exercise may reduce the risk of breast cancer as well.

Colorectal cancer is also among the most common types of cancer. Over 140,000 new cases are expected to be diagnosed in the US in 2010. The estimated number of deaths for the year is over 50,000. The symptoms of this type of cancer can easily be mistaken with the presence of hemorrhoids. For this reason, seeing a doctor after observing such warning signs is essential.

Bladder cancer is also in the list of the most common types of cancer. Estimates show that over 70,000 people in the US will be diagnosed with it in 2010. The number of expected deaths is over 14,000. Bladder cancer is often diagnosed in the early stages of development and can be successfully cured. Still, it is known to reoccur in many patients.