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Deadly Cancers: The 5 Most Fatal Types of Cancer

Discussion in 'Oncology' started by Dr.Scorpiowoman, Jan 21, 2017.

  1. Dr.Scorpiowoman

    Dr.Scorpiowoman Golden Member

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    When it comes to topics that aren’t easy to discuss, cancer tops the list. Not only is the disease life-altering, but it’s also the second leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But cancer in and of itself isn’t a death sentence. After all, certain types have remarkably high remission rates. So, how do you know which ones are the most concerning and what specifics to be aware of? We’ve done the research for you. According to the American Cancer Society‘s 2016 projections, these are the five deadliest cancers you’ll want to have on your radar.

    5. Liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer

    b19f21df9d06b3f7f507ead4c79e415c.jpg
    A diagram of a liver

    Most of us know the liver helps eliminate toxins ( we’re looking at you, alcohol), but the National Cancer Institute says it’s also crucial for producing and releasing sugar for energy, maintaining proper digestion, and helping blood clot. If cancer develops in the liver and continues to worsen, it can be life-threatening. Unfortunately, the number of deaths related to the organ is expected to increase this year, making it the fifth deadliest cancer. This general category also includes intrahepatic bile duct cancer, which develops in the smaller branches that carry the fluid needed to break down fats during digestion. Together, these types of liver cancer are projected to kill about 27,000 people by the end of the year.


    One of the reasons this cancer can be so lethal is that it’s difficult to detect during the early stages — there aren’t many signs or symptoms at first. Risk is higher for men, certain ethnicities, and those with pre-existing medical conditions, so it’s worth speaking with your doctor about what your chances are. He or she can then help you determine if there are any changes you can make to reduce your risk.



    4. Breast cancer

    4ebc211c414a0507a3696d72a5ae14be.jpg

    A woman holding a pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness

    Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, according to the CDC. In 2013, almost 231,000 women were diagnosed and close to 41,000 died from the disease. However, breast cancer can affect men, too. Cases were detected in more than 2,000 men during that same year, killing close to 500. This year, the death rate is estimated to drop slightly to 41,000 total fatalities.

    WebMD says it’s not always easy to pinpoint exactly what causes the condition, but there are some factors that may increase risk, including genetics, hormone replacement therapy, alcohol, and ethnicity. As for first signs, an abnormal mammogram or breast lumps are common. Other symptoms may include skin irregularities, unusual nipple discharge, or a change in breast shape or size. Luckily, there are ways to treat the disease, which have helped many breast cancer survivors.



    3. Pancreatic cancer

    e137b1a9fbdeb3656352a6a843bc33ea.jpg

    A diagram of a pancreas

    Based on this year’s estimates, pancreatic cancer will kill close to 42,000 people by the end of 2016. These projections would make it the third leading cause of death by cancer in the U.S. Unfortunately, there aren’t many warning signs during the early stages of development, and there also aren’t any reliable tests for those without symptoms. This makes it hard to diagnose before it’s progressed substantially.

    Some people may experience pain in the upper abdomen or back, loss of appetite, bloat, or fatigue, but it’s easy to mistake these signs for a simple stomach bug. To learn more about what you can do to reduce your risk, especially if you’re genetically predisposed or have used tobacco products, it’s best to speak with your physician.



    2. Colorectum cancer

    4a232f4c265d4feee8047f076992e920.jpg

    A woman feeling pain due to colon cancer

    Colorectum (or colorectal) cancer is projected to be the second most lethal cancer for both men and women in the U.S. this year. The CDC say around 136,000 men and women were diagnosed with colon cancer in 2013, causing almost 52,000 deaths. This year is actually projected to decrease, with around 134,000 new cases and 49,000 deaths.

    This type of cancer usually starts with abnormal growths (polyps) in the large intestine or rectum, the CDC explains, which can turn into cancer over time if not treated. Since not everyone experiences symptoms when polyps start to develop, getting a colorectal cancer screening is one of the best ways to catch them early. The disease is most common among people over the age of 50, so you’ll want to practice healthy lifestyle habits as you get older to reduce risk. This includes maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly.






    1. Lung cancer

    22beca68416be5909abe4be7e5e8ae60.jpg

    A diagram of the lungs

    In 2013, lung cancer was the number one cause of cancer death for both men and women in the U.S., according to the CDC. It’s slated to remain in the top spot this year, as it’s projected to kill more than 158,000 people by the end of the year.

    Not surprisingly, the leading risk factor is smoking, which the CDC says is linked to 80% to 90% of lung cancer diagnoses. However, it’s not just cigarettes that can make you more susceptible. Radon, a naturally occurring gas that comes from dirt and rocks, contributes to a large number of cases. You should also be mindful of using products containing potentially harmful carcinogens.

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