Cancer is considered the second-highest cause of death worldwide. The mortality rate due to cancer is higher compared to other diseases. The causes of cancer are attributed to different factors. Change of lifestyle, exposure to toxic chemicals, and genetic makeup are among the major causes of cancer. Cancer comes in different forms; some are mild and manageable, while others are deadly. Below are the worst forms of cancer, diagnosis, and the steps you should take.
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Lung Cancer
It is estimated that 1 in 13 men and 1 in 16 women will get lung cancer at some point in their life. The risk is much higher in people above the age of 65. The top cause of lung cancer is smoking. Exposure to toxic fumes and chemicals such as radon, chromium, asbestos, soot, and tar also causes lung cancer. Regular screening helps you identify and get a diagnosis. When lung cancer is detected earlier, and the right treatment is provided, it is easier to manage it.
Colorectal Cancer
It is estimated at some point in their life, 1 in 20 people will get colorectal cancer. This type of cancer is deadly, with a high mortality rate; as you get older, your chances of getting colon cancer increase. The risk factor is age, family history, smokers and obesity. Colonoscopy, if done early, helps identify it. The odds of survival are much higher will early detection. It is important to start treatment early once it has been found.
Breast Cancer
In their lifetime, roughly 1 in 8 women get breast cancer. It is much lower in men as the ratio is 1:1000. As much as women are at the highest risk of getting breast cancer, age is also a contributing factor. Women above the age of 45 and mainly after menopause are at risk. Genetic makeup, family history, obesity, and radiation exposure are also contributing factors. For diagnosis, mammography is recommended. Early detection and treatment increase your chances of survival.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. Its effects are, however, deadly as they increase with time. Chances of survival are much lower because cancer will be detected after decades of extreme exposure to asbestos. Factory and construction workers in companies that use asbestos or products made with asbestos are at the highest risk. Unlike other cancer patients, mesothelioma treatment becomes easier because of the settlement claims and asbestos trust funds that victims can access from the responsible companies.
Prostate Cancer
Older men are with the highest risk of getting prostate cancer. It is estimated 1 in every 7 men will get this form of cancer. The risk factors are race and men above the age of 50. Prostate cancer can run in the family, and regular screening should be done for early detection. Diagnosis is made through blood tests, biopsy, and ultrasound. The earlier the disease is detected, the easier it will be to treat and manage its effects.
Heart disease is the only cause of death after cancer. There are different types and forms of cancer; others with mild effects, while most are deadly. Most cancer survivors attribute the success to early detections. There are different types of tests that one can be subjected to depending on the type of cancer. Talking to a physician or cancer specialist helps in getting information and understanding more about cancer.
