What you need to know about 9 most common cancers

 Most people know of someone in their family or a friend who has been diagnosed with cancer. Cancer affects everyone – the young and old, the rich and poor, men, women and children – and represents a tremendous burden on patients, families and societies. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, and is responsible for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018. Globally, about 1 in 6 deaths are caused by cancer. Lung, colorectal, stomach, liver and breast cancers cause the most cancer deaths each year.

9 of the most common cancers:

1. Lung Cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. People who smoke have the greatest risk of lung cancer, though lung cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked

2. Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it is far more common in women.

3. Colorectal Cancer also known as bowel cancer and colon cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum (parts of the large intestine). 

4. Prostate Cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. 

5. Pancreatic Cancer begins in the tissues of your pancreas — an organ in your abdomen that lies horizontally behind the lower part of your stomach. Your pancreas releases enzymes that aid digestion and hormones that help manage your blood sugar.

6. Liver Cancer (also known as hepatic cancer and primary hepatic cancer), is a cancer that starts in the liver.

7. Cervical Cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Early-stage cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms.

8. Stomach Cancer usually begins in the mucus-producing cells that line the stomach.

9. Leukaemia is cancer of the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. Leukaemia symptoms vary, depending on the type of leukaemia. 

Cancer mortality rates can be reduced if cases are detected and treated early. When identified early, cancer is more likely to respond to effective treatment and can result in a greater probability of surviving, less morbidity, and cheaper treatment. Significant improvements can be made in the lives of cancer patients by detecting cancer early and avoiding delays in care.

An accurate cancer diagnosis is essential for adequate and effective treatment because every cancer type requires a specific treatment plan that encompasses one or more modalities such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

Content provided by Island Hospital, a healthcare institution committed to provide patients with the highest quality cancer care available through a dedicated team of cancer care professionals. Patients who come to Island Hospital benefit from a team of specialists who work together to treat and assist you and your family. Patients have access to a full range of services, including early detection, prevention, wellness, nutritional guidance and psychological support.