Cancer now killing more than heart attack
Yes, that's correct. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer has become the leading cause of death worldwide, surpassing heart disease as the number one killer.
In 2019, cancer accounted for 9.6 million deaths, which is approximately 18% of all deaths globally. Heart disease, on the other hand, accounted for 8.9 million deaths, which is around 17% of all deaths.
This shift is attributed to several factors, including:
- Increasing incidence of cancer: The incidence of cancer has been rising globally due to factors such as aging population, lifestyle changes, and environmental factors.
- Improved treatment options for heart disease: Advances in medical technology and treatment options for heart disease have led to a decline in mortality rates.
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment: Cancer often presents with non-specific symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can worsen outcomes.
- Increased awareness and screening: Increased awareness and screening for cancer have led to earlier detection and treatment, which can improve outcomes.
The most common types of cancer that contribute to this trend include:
- Lung cancer: Accounting for approximately 1.8 million deaths in 2019.
- Breast cancer: Accounting for approximately 1.3 million deaths in 2019.
- Colorectal cancer: Accounting for approximately 1.1 million deaths in 2019.
- Prostate cancer: Accounting for approximately 1 million deaths in 2019.
It's essential to note that heart disease is still a significant public health concern, and efforts to prevent and treat it should continue. However, the increasing burden of cancer highlights the need for continued research, awareness, and investment in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.