Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Its risk has been seen in people of almost all ages. Breast and cervical cancer are the most common cases in women, while lung and prostate cancer are the most reported cases in men. According to the information shared by the Union Ministry of Health and Family, eight lakh people lost their lives due to cancer in the year 2022. More than 14.61 lakh people were diagnosed with cancer last year, an increase of 69,000 cases from July 2020 to 2023.
In a recent report released on the risks of cancer, a team of scientists said that if timely screening and diagnosis had been expedited, 63% of cancer-related deaths among women in the country could have been prevented. It is noteworthy that the sooner cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chances of survival.
Increased risk of cancer in women
According to the study published in The Lancet Journal regarding death due to cancer and its risks, we need to pay serious attention to the risks of cancer. In most cases, cancer is diagnosed only when the disease reaches a serious stage. This is a big risk to global health.
Of the 3 million adults under 50 who were diagnosed with cancer in 2020, two out of every three were women. Cancer is a leading cause of mortality in women. It is very important to keep taking measures to prevent this.
These are the major risk factors for cancer
The team of researchers tried to understand the increasing risk of the disease in women, according to which four major cancer risk factors - tobacco, alcohol, obesity, and infection - were found responsible for the deaths of approximately 1.3 million women suffering from cancer in 2020.
Breast and cervical cancer are most commonly seen in women. Every year, about 300,000 women under the age of 70 years die due to lung cancer, and 1.60 lakh women die due to colorectal cancer.
Do these things to prevent cancer
Health experts say women should have an annual mammogram every year from the age of 40 onwards. Women at high risk for breast cancer may need to start screening earlier. It is best to talk to a doctor about your risk by the age of 30; early diagnosis can reduce the risk of the disease progressing to a more severe stage and resulting in death.
It is also important to maintain a proper lifestyle
The team of doctors says timely testing can help reduce the risks caused by cancer. Also, all people need to maintain a proper lifestyle. Avoiding smoking and alcohol, avoiding harmful UV radiation, and keeping your weight under control can protect you from the risks of cancer and many other chronic diseases. All people need to take protective precautions from an early age.
(PC: Freepik)