The most common neoplasms in women. How to prevent them?

The most common cancers in women include breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, cervical cancer, and thyroid cancer. According to research conducted by the World Cancer Research Fund, cancers in the first three places account for as much as 43.9% of cases in the world's female population. How can cancer be prevented? Which way of prevention will be the most effective?

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, according to research conducted by the World Cancer Research Fund. It accounts for 25.4% of cases worldwide. Due to certain conditions – medical family history, genetic mutations, age, etc. – some women are more likely to develop this type of cancer.

Breast cancer prevention: The curability of breast cancer largely depends on the stage of its development, so it is important to undergo periodic checkups. It is worth introducing self-examination into the daily routine. Its extremely simple and can be performed even in the shower. In addition, women over 40 should undergo a comprehensive health check, including mammography, at least once a year.

Colon cancer

Research shows that in 2018, colorectal cancer was detected in 9.7% of cancer patients. This type of cancer appears in the colon or rectum. Factors that increase the risk of developing the disease include overweight and obesity, a diet high in processed red meat, smoking, and excessive alcohol drinking. People whose families have had cases of colorectal cancer or polyps located in the large intestine should be particularly alert.

Colorectal Cancer Prevention: The most effective method of prevention is through tests such as stool examination and colonoscopy. The high-risk group is people over 45 years old. In the case of people that are genetically at risk of developing colorectal cancer, it is worth starting periodic tests earlier.

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the most common cancer on a global scale. Among women, it accounts for 8.8% of cancer cases. The main reason for such a situation is long-term exposure to harmful substances that pass through the inhaled air to the lungs. The factor that significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer is cigarette smoking. However, it should be remembered that it can also develop in people who have never smoked them, and among ex-smokers, the risk remains relatively high for a long time after quitting smoking.

Lung cancer prevention: Prevention includes avoiding smoking. If you are a person who has never smoked, then just don't start smoking. It is also worth avoiding being in the company of smokers, so as not to expose yourself to secondhand smoke. People who are at higher risk should have regular tests. This especially include ex-smokers and people over the age of 40.

Cervical cancer

The main factor in the development of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus – HPV, which is sexually transmitted. Its appearance is also significantly influenced by the condition of the immune system, as well as other lifestyle factors (e.g. smoking, being overweight, taking hormones). Cervical cancer accounts for 6.9% of all cancer cases worldwide.

Cervical cancer prevention: Prevention includes the use of condoms during sexual intercourse, as well as vaccination against HPV. According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), not only girls and young women should be vaccinated, but also boys and young men. Moreover, taking it at an early age gives better efficacy. In addition, periodic smear tests should be performed.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer accounts for 6.3% of cases diagnosed among women worldwide. According to the Mayo Clinic, the incidence of this type of cancer is increasing, but the reasons for this remain a controversial issue. Factors that may influence its development include iodine deficiency, an overactive pituitary gland causing excessive TSH stimulation, ionizing radiation, and genetic factors. The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of hormones that regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight. A tumor of this organ may not be apparent at first, but as it grows, symptoms may get worse. Symptoms include enlargement of the neck circumference, pain in the front of the neck, change in tone of voice, difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Thyroid cancer prevention: People who are the most at risk of developing thyroid cancer are those who live close to nuclear power plants. In the unlikely event of a reactor failure, potassium iodide is administered to mitigate the effects of radiation exposure. In the case of people with a detected gene mutation, an available prevention is thyroid surgery – thyroidectomy. For people with no family history of thyroid cancer, there is no specific type of prevention.

How to prevent cancer?

Of course, preventive measures include regular check-ups. By avoiding large intervals between them, we increase our chances of early detection of changes in the body that may indicate the risk of cancer development. In addition, lifestyle plays an important role in prevention. You should take care of a balanced diet – rich in wholesome and unprocessed products, such as fresh vegetables. It is also worth staying physically active, which will help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid many other diseases.