Most common cancers in Brazil

Although not among the countries with the highest cancer mortality rates, in Brazil, this is the second leading cause of death, reaching 13% and second only to deaths caused by circulatory problems such as diabetes, heart attack, hypertension, and others.

The habits of Brazilians, their lifestyle and the pace at which they live contribute to the alarming increase in numbers worldwide which, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by the year 2030, 27 million people will be affected. for this disease.

Risk factors such as overweight, an unregulated diet with little or no fruit and vegetable intake, physical inactivity, smoking and alcoholism increasingly expose people to the risk of developing various cancers that could be prevented.

According to data from INCA, the National Cancer Institute in Brazil, the most common type of cancer is non-melanoma skin, but because it is a type of low lethality, it is not among the leading causes of death. Among men, the most common cancer is prostate cancer, followed by lung, colon and rectum, stomach, oral cavity, larynx and bladder. Among women, the most common types are breast, cervix, colon and rectum, thyroid gland, lung, stomach and ovary. The following is a list of some of the most common cancers in Brazil that affect men and women.

Skin

This type of cancer is divided into two groups: the least aggressive and most common, called non-melanoma, and the most aggressive and rare, called melanoma.

The nonmelanoma type develops slowly and hardly spreads throughout the body. Its main cause is linked to sun exposure, but when detected and well treated, has high chances of cure, since the melanoma type has inherited origins. In both cases it is necessary to observe the appearance of spots on the skin and to report to the dermatologist. Protecting yourself from sun exposure is one of the most effective measures to avoid the problem.

Prostate

According to recent data, this is the most common type of cancer among men. The biggest risk factor for the development of the disease is age, as most cases occur in men aged 65 and over.

Another risk factor is a diet based on animal fat, red meat and sausages and overweight, so a diet rich in vegetables and vitamins D and E can contribute to reducing the risk. In addition, touch examination is the main way to diagnose the disease early.

Mama

This is the most common and feared type among women worldwide. Its main risk factor is age, as its occurrence increases in women over 50, but other factors such as menstrual history of women who had their menstruation before age 12 and entered menopause after 55 years, in addition to obesity , late pregnancy, and especially family history, contribute to the increased risk.

A healthy diet, exercise, and breastfeeding all contribute to risk reduction, but the best way to prevent it is by self-examination. After age 20, the woman should have her breast self-examined monthly and with the doctor at least every 3 years. After 40, the appointment with the doctor should be annual. An early diagnosis increases the chances of cure and decreases the need for surgical interventions.

Cervix

The HPV virus is the main risk factor. In addition, genetic factors and smoking may also be determinant for the development of the disease. After non-melanoma skin cancer, this is the one that is most likely to be prevented and cured, and detection can be done through pap smears.

The disease manifests between 20 and 29 years, but there is also a risk for women between 50 and 60 years.

Colon and rectum

Excessive consumption of red meat, sausages, alcoholic beverages, smoking and obesity are considered risk factors for the development of this disease, but genetic factors, age and chronic bowel diseases are the most favorable factors. emergence of tumors.

If detected early, the disease responds well to treatments. Healthy eating rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals, fish and exercise help to reduce risks.

Thyroid gland

This is a cancer that affects more women than men, which according to studies may be linked to hormonal factors.

Environmental factors, dietary foods and genetic issues may also be linked to the development of the disease.

Lung

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide.Most cases, about 90% according to INCA data, are linked to tobacco; however, people who do not smoke but are exposed to smoke, the so-called passive smokers, also have a risk of developing the disease by absorbing it. lots of nicotine, carbon monoxide and other harmful substances in cigarettes, cigars and pipes.

Smoking dependence is one of the biggest risk factors and a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetable consumption can be a factor in minimizing the risks.

Stomach

It is the second leading cause of cancer death in the world among men and women. The main risk factor is contact with H. pylori bacteria. This bacterium is responsible for up to 53% of cases. Other factors that may trigger the disease are of environmental, behavioral and genetic origins.

A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables that have vitamins C, E and beta carotene contribute to a reduction in the incidence. Similarly, overconsumption of food with preservatives such as canned foods increases the risks.

In short, no one is totally immune to developing this disease, but maintaining healthy habits and a balanced diet, coupled with prevention and regular doctor visits can help minimize the risks and especially make a diagnosis at the onset of the disease. Most cases are the deciding factor for cure. Take care. Prevent yourself.

Brazil cancer patients get the beauty treatment (April 2024)