Prevalent Cancer Categories: Abreakdown by Gender and Ethnicity
In the United States, the most common cancers vary by sex and race, with distinct patterns in incidence and prevalence.
For men, the most prevalent cancers are prostate cancer, melanoma of the skin, and colorectal cancer. Prostate cancer, a type of cancer that starts in a man's prostate gland, is one of the most common types of cancer. Melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, accounts for a significant number of skin cancer cases. Colorectal cancer, which starts in the colon or rectum, is among the most common types of cancer.
For women, breast cancer, endometrial (uterine corpus) cancer, and thyroid cancer dominate. Breast cancer, the most common type of cancer among females, is expected to have an estimated 284,200 new cases in 2021. Endometrial cancer, a type of uterine cancer that develops in the lining of the uterus, is also a significant concern. Cervical cancer, another cancer that most often affects females, is also worth noting. Ovarian cancer, which develops in a woman's ovaries, is another common type of cancer among women.
Racial differences also influence cancer incidence and outcomes. Non-Hispanic Black and American Indian/Alaskan Native patients experience higher relative risks of cancer death compared with non-Hispanic White patients. This disparity can be attributed to biological differences, social determinants of health, and access to care. For example, certain molecular alterations in tumors differ by race, such as higher EGFR mutation rates in Asian populations with lung cancer and higher p53 mutation rates in Black patients with endometrial cancer.
Regarding specific cancer types by race, colorectal cancer is a significant cause of cancer and shows both racial disparities and sex differences in incidence and survival. Lung cancer shows varying death rates with faster declines in Black men than White men but consistently higher rates in White women, illustrating disparities by race and sex.
The top 10 cancers affecting different racial and ethnic groups in the United States are as follows:
- For Asian and Pacific Islander people: Breast, Prostate, Lung and bronchus, Colorectal, Corpus and uterus, Thyroid, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Liver and intrahepatic bile duct, Pancreas, and Ovary.
- For Hispanic people: Breast, Prostate, Colorectal, Lung and bronchus, Corpus and uterus, Kidney and renal pelvis, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Liver and intrahepatic bile duct, Thyroid, and Pancreas.
- For American Indian and Alaskan Native people: Breast, Prostate, Lung and bronchus, Colorectal, Corpus and uterus, Kidney and renal, Non-hodgkin lymphoma, Liver and intrahepatic bile duct, Thyroid, and Pancreas.
- For Black people: Prostate, Breast, Lung and bronchus, Colorectal, Corpus and uterus, Kidney and renal pelvis, Pancreas, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Myeloma, and Urinary bladder.
Controllable factors, such as smoking, can also affect a person's risk for developing certain cancers. Leukemia, all types, is a cancer that affects the blood and often starts in the bone marrow. It is worth noting that people with African ancestry have a higher chance of developing cancer than other races and ethnicities worldwide.
In summary, understanding the common cancers by sex and race is crucial for early detection and prevention. It is essential to encourage regular screenings and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of cancer. More research is needed to address the racial disparities in cancer incidence and outcomes.
[References] [1] American Cancer Society. (2021). Cancer Facts & Figures 2021. Atlanta: American Cancer Society. [2] National Cancer Institute. (2021). SEER Cancer Statistics Review, 1975-2019. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute. [3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Cancer Statistics for Hispanic Americans. Atlanta: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [4] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Cancer in American Indians and Alaska Natives. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute. [5] American Cancer Society. (2021). Cancer Facts & Figures for African Americans 2021-2023. Atlanta: American Cancer Society.
- Other lymphomas, such as Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, are among the top 10 cancers affecting Asian and Pacific Islander, Hispanic, American Indian and Alaskan Native, and Black populations in the United States.
- Chronic kidney disease and COPD are not amongst the top 10 cancers in the United States, but they are significant chronic diseases that require medical attention.
- Type 2 diabetes, a common chronic disease, is not typically considered a cancer, but it can increase the risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, uterine cancer, and breast cancer.
- Science plays a crucial role in understanding the molecular alterations that differ by race in tumors, such as higher EGFR mutation rates in Asian populations with lung cancer and higher p53 mutation rates in Black patients with endometrial cancer.
- The manufacturing industry, oil and gas, and automotive sectors often expose workers to hazardous substances that may increase the risk of various cancers, such as lung cancer and leukemia.
- Climate change can impact health and wellness by increasing the prevalence of respiratory conditions, such as asthma and COPD, and other chronic diseases, such as heat-related illnesses.
- Renewable energy, such as wind or solar power, is envisioned as a potential solution to reduce emissions that may affect air quality and contribute to cancer development or other diseases.
- Autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, are not cancers, but they can impact cardiovascular health and contribute to chronic inflammation, which may increase the risk of certain cancers.
- Neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, are not typically considered cancers, but they can impact a person's overall health and well-being, potentially affecting their response to cancer treatments.
- Breast cancer and uterine cancer are among the most common cancers among women, and they may be influenced by factors such as hormones, genetics, and environmental exposures, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
- Eye health, hearing, and digestive health are essential aspects of overall health and wellness, as certain medical conditions in these areas can impact a person's quality of life and potentially increase the risk of other health problems.
- Environmental science must consider the potential impact of chemicals and pollutants on cancer development and other health outcomes, as these agents can be found in various products, including pharmaceuticals, household cleaners, and pesticides.
- Finance plays a role in addressing cancer disparities by ensuring access to affordable healthcare, cancer screenings, and treatments for all, regardless of race or socioeconomic status.
- Energy-efficient transportation methods, such as public transit, electric vehicles, and biking, can help reduce emissions and contribute to a healthier environment, potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers and other chronic diseases.
- Aviation, banking, and insurance industries may have a role in promoting health and wellness by implementing policies that support employee health, such as providing gym memberships, mental health resources, or stress management programs.
- Skin conditions, such as melanoma, can increase the risk of other cancers, and the retail sector should consider selling sun protective clothing, hats, and other products to help protect individuals from harmful UV rays.
- Space and astronomy offer a unique perspective on how climate change and other environmental factors can impact our planet and potentially contribute to the development of certain cancers and other chronic diseases.
- The oil and gas industry, retail, transportation, and other sectors must consider the potential impact of their activities on cancer development, climate change, and overall health and well-being, and work towards adopting more sustainable practices and technologies to promote a healthier world.
