Nearly one in six deaths and one in four deaths from noncommunicable diseases worldwide are attributable to cancer, making it a serious public health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) projects that over the next 20 years, the number of cancer cases will increase by 60per cent, with low- and middle-income nations being the most affected. For men, the most common cancers are those of the mouth, lungs, and prostate; for women, the most common cancers are those of the breast, cervix, ovary, oral cavity, and colorectal region, in that order.
Because of increased life expectancy, urbanisation, and the adoption of western lifestyles, the incidence of breast cancer has significantly increased. The primary focus of prevention is on addressing the risk factors for cancer. Exogenous female hormones, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and diet are all modifiable risk factors. Numerous cancers, including those of the breast, endometrium, and ovaries in women, are associated with pathologic obesity. Adults should engage in at least 200 to 300 minutes of vigorous exercise per week, ideally spread out over the course of the week, according to the American Cancer Society. Most cancers in the body, including those of the lung, larynx, mouth, oesophagus, throat, bladder, kidney, liver, stomach, pancreas, colon, and hematological malignancies like acute myeloid leukemia, are caused by tobacco use.The purpose of screening is to find a precancerous condition or to find cancer early.
Mammography is a simple test used for screeningof breast cancer. It is advised that women over 40 undergo screening annually and continue to do so until they are 74 years old. From the age of 25, a clinical breast examination is advised every one to three years. Women who have a family history of cancer or an increased risk of breast cancer should begin screening as early as age 35. In high-risk individuals, MRI is recommended as a supplement to mammograms. As gene sequencing has advanced, numerous mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, have been found to be the primary causes of the genetic predisposition of ovarian and breast cancers. Simple blood tests can identify these genes.
Rural women are more likely to develop cervical cancer. Cervical cancer can be effectively prevented with the HPV vaccine. Girls should get vaccinated against HPV starting at age 9 and continuing until age 26. When administered prior to sexual activity, it provides the best protection. PAP smears are used for screening starting at age 21. Pap smears are performed every three years, though they can be performed every five if they are combined with HPV DNA testing.
LDCT, or low dose computed tomography, is a screening tool for lung cancer. For people between the ages of 50 and 80 who have smoked for more than 20 pack-years, it is advised annually. Males 50 years of age and older are frequently screened for prostate cancer using serum PSA estimation, either in conjunction with or without digital rectal examination (DRE). Smoking and tobacco chewing are the main causes of oral cavity cancer in men, particularly in rural areas. Any suspicious lesions in the oral cavity can be found with a simple oral cavity examination.
Ovarian cancer screening tests are ineffective. Women who are more likely to develop ovarian cancer due to family history or genetic predisposition may benefit from transvaginal ultrasounds, or TVUS. Using a colonoscopy once every ten years, colon cancer screening typically begins at age 45. In families where a genetic mutation has been found in a first-degree relative, a colonoscopy is performed once every one to two years.
Even with the availability of screening tools, cancer diagnosis and detection are still stigmatized, particularly for rural women. The need of the hour is to close the gap in cancer care and raise the required awareness.
In summary, we encourage everyone to reduce their risk of cancer by adopting easy yet powerful measures, such as abstaining from tobacco use, maintaining an active lifestyle, eating a healthy diet, and consuming alcohol in moderation. Stay up to date on HPV vaccinations and get screening tests on a regular basis. It also helps to talk to your doctor about your family history. These easy actions support general health and wellness and aid in the prevention of cancer.