The numbers are getting worse… the big “C” is all too common

Let’ face it. If you haven’t already been diagnosed with cancer, you probably know someone who has had it or worse, succumbed to it. As morbid as that may sound, unfortunately it’s a reality. In fact, about 40.5% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives, per the National Cancer Institute. The ACS projected – for the first time ever – that over 2 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed this year. This alarming statistic underscores the critical need for advancements in cancer research, early detection, and effective treatment options. Increased funding for research, public awareness campaigns about lifestyle changes and preventive measures, and improved access to healthcare services are essential steps in combating this disease, on a global scale. Cancer is the leading cause of death in economically developed countries and the second leading cause of death in developing countries.1 The burden of cancer is increasing in economically developing countries as a result of population aging and growth as well as, increasingly, an adoption of cancer-associated lifestyle choices including smoking, physical inactivity, and “westernized” diets.  Ahmedin Jemal DVM, PhD, Freddie Bray PhD, Melissa M. Center MPH, Jacques Ferlay ME, Elizabeth...