Cancer remains one of the greatest public health challenges worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second major cause of global mortality, resulting in approximately 10 million deaths annually. In fact, one out of every six deaths worldwide is due to cancer. Additionally, 19.3 million new cancer cases were identified in 2020, signaling an alarming trend for global health systems.
Cancer in Iran: Statistics and concerns
In Iran, about 131,000 people are diagnosed with cancer annually, and approximately 79,000 lose their lives to the disease. This translates to an average of 200 cancer-related deaths per day. Studies indicate that the incidence rate of cancer in Iran is about 152 cases per 100,000 people.
Common cancers among Iranian men include stomach, prostate, and lung cancers, while among women, they are breast, stomach, and colorectal cancers. The high incidence of stomach cancer in Iran is linked to the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infections. Furthermore, tobacco consumption, hookah smoking, drug use, and environmental pollution are primary factors contributing to the rise in lung cancer in the country.
In terms of cancer incidence growth, Iran ranks 48th globally. Arab countries in the region, such as Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain, have higher cancer growth rates than Iran.
Role of obesity, lifestyle, and environmental pollution
Studies have shown that obesity and overweight are key factors in increasing the risk of cancer. The longer an individual remains overweight, the higher the risk of developing 13 different types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, kidney, and pancreatic cancers. Additionally, smoking is the leading cause of cancer, responsible for approximately 25% of all cancer-related deaths.
Exposure to air pollution, industrial pollutants, and carcinogenic chemicals is also a major contributor to the rise in cancer statistics. Research indicates that air pollution causes over 250,000 lung cancer deaths worldwide annually.
Prevention and intervention strategies
Adopting a low-fat diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and reducing the consumption of processed meats can help decrease the risk of cancer.
Smoking and hookah use are among the primary causes of lung, mouth, throat, and bladder cancers. Quitting these habits directly reduces the risk of cancer.
Furthermore, regular exercise helps regulate hormone levels and strengthen the immune system, reducing the likelihood of obesity-related cancers.
Health experts believe that administering HPV and hepatitis B vaccines can prevent cervical and liver cancers.
Screening tests such as mammography, colonoscopy, and genetic testing play a crucial role in early detection and effective treatment of cancer.
Cancer remains a significant threat to public health in Iran and worldwide. Given the increasing trend in cancer statistics, awareness, preventive policies, and improvements in healthcare systems are more important than ever. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, quitting high-risk habits, and increasing access to diagnostic and treatment methods can significantly reduce cancer incidence and mortality.
NOURNEWS