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Cancer outlook: an African perspective
1Department of Tropical Diseases, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Cancer incidence and mortality are rising globally, particularly in developing nations. While some risk factors are unchangeable, public education on cancer avoidance and improved screening can reduce the cancer burden.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Cancer mortality and incidence rates are alarmingly high and increasing in Western populations.
- Lifestyle changes in developing countries are leading to a rise in cancer risk factors.
- While genetic and demographic factors are immutable, many lifestyle and environmental factors contribute to cancer risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the current trends in cancer incidence and mortality.
- To identify modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for cancer.
- To explore strategies for cancer prevention, screening, and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on cancer trends in Western and developing countries.
- Analysis of known risk factors, including genetics, lifestyle, diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
- Discussion of the impact of urbanization and lifestyle changes on cancer rates.
Main Results:
- Cancer rates are increasing globally, with significant lifestyle-driven increases in developing urban populations.
- Modifiable factors like diet, smoking, and alcohol remain significant contributors to cancer burden.
- Known risk factors explain less than half of all cancer occurrences, indicating a need for further research.
Conclusions:
- Despite knowledge of risk factors, meaningful reductions in cancer burden are challenging.
- Enhanced screening and treatment advancements can improve survival rates.
- Public education on cancer avoidance and early detection is crucial for mitigating future cancer incidence.