Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with certain types being more aggressive and fatal than others. In this article, we will discuss the top three deadliest cancers, their causes, symptoms, and how you can reduce your risk.
1. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. It primarily affects smokers, but non-smokers can also develop the disease due to factors like air pollution and genetic predisposition.
Causes:
- Smoking (responsible for about 85% of cases)
- Exposure to radon gas
- Air pollution and secondhand smoke
- Genetic factors
Symptoms:
- Chronic cough: People with lung cancer often have a cough that won’t go away. A cough that lasts for at least eight weeks is considered chronic.
- Repeated respiratory infections: Lung tumors can block the airway, causing frequent infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
- Coughing up blood: Even if it’s just a small amount, coughing up blood or bloody mucus is a reason to call your doctor.
- Shortness of breath: Lung cancer can cause the airway passage to narrow, which leads to difficulty breathing.
- Hoarseness: Chronic coughing or a tumor that interferes with the vocal cords can cause people with lung cancer to have a raspy voice.
- Chest pain: Lung cancer pain is due to a tumor causing tightness in the chest or pressing on nerves. You may feel pain in your chest, especially when breathing deeply, coughing or laughing.
Prevention Tips:
- Quit smoking and avoid tobacco exposure
- Test your home for radon
- Reduce exposure to pollutants
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly
2. Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and is one of the most common and lethal cancers worldwide. It often starts as benign polyps that develop into cancer over time.
Causes:
- Poor diet (high in processed foods and low in fiber)
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Obesity
- Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
Symptoms:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools)
- Blood in the stool
- Abdominal discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
Prevention Tips:
- Eat a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Exercise regularly
- Get screened regularly (especially after age 45)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol intake and quit smoking
3. Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-detect cancers, making it a leading cause of cancer deaths.
Causes:
- Smoking
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Family history of pancreatic cancer
- Obesity and poor diet
- Diabetes
Symptoms:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal or back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Digestive issues
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Follow a balanced diet rich in whole foods
- Exercise regularly
- Manage conditions like diabetes effectively
