Incidence of Cancer Flashcards
What are two different ways that the importance of different types of cancer can be measured?
Incidence
Mortality
What is the definition of “incidence”?
The number of newly diagnosed cases of cancer in a specific time period (usually one year).
This can be further developed by also including a specific population (Eg. female).
What is the definition of “mortality”?
The number of deaths that are attributable to cancer in a specific time period (usually a year).
This can be further developed to include a specific population.
In Canada, how many new cases of cancer will occur (according to 2016 Canadian Cancer Society Stats)?
202 400 new cases of cancer will occur.
Are cancer diagnoses higher in men or women?
Slightly more men than women will be diagnosed with a new cancer.
What percentage of deaths in Canada are caused by cancer?
Cancer is now the leading cause of death in Canada (overtaking cardiovascular disease) and accounts for 30% of all deaths.
What are the most common cancers (by incidence)?
Non-melanoma skin cancers (basal and squamous cell - approx 80,000)
Most common but reported separately as very few deaths (approximately 500/year).
What are the most common cancers in males?
21% prostate cancer
14.1% colorectal cancer
14% lung cancer
What are the most common cancers in females? (and incidence rates)
25.8% breast canceer
14% lung cancer
11.7% colorectal cancer
What is the estimated number of annual deaths from cancer in Canada for males?
estimated 41 700 deaths amongst men
What is the estimated number of annual deaths from cancer in Canada for females?
estimated 37 100 deaths amongst women
What are some of the fastest rising cancers in Canada according to a 2013 special report?
Liver cancer
Skin Cancer (melanoma)
HPV associated cancers
What is the increase in incidence in liver cancer in Canada since 1970?
Since 1970, the incidence in men has tripled and in women it has doubled.
What is the prognosis for liver cancer? What is the 5 year survival rate?
Poor prognosis with the 5 year survival rate only 20%
What are the risk factors for liver cancer?
Chronic hepatitis B and C infection (many people do not know they are infected) High alcohol intake Obesity Diabetes Smoking
What things are needed in order to decrease liver cancer incidence?
Increased awareness
More research into causes/treatments, etc.
Enhanced screening programmes for hep B and C
Use of vaccinations
Health promotion
How preventable is skin cancer?
Skin cancer, including melanoma, is one of the most preventable types of cancer.
What are the risk factors for skin cancer?
Exposure to UV radiation (sun, tanning beds) - UV radiation is responsible for up to 90% of melanoma cases
What are some ways to combat the rising incidence of skin cancer?
Public awareness and policies: banning use of indoor tanning beds to youth under 18 years, sun safe practices (sun screen, hats, planning outdoor activities, checking UV index)
What cancers are associated with HPV?
Cervix Anus Penis Vulva Vagina Oropharynx
