Is Lung Cancer Very Common?

Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the world. It affects both men and women, without discrimination, though it is most prevalent among certain groups, including smokers and the elderly.

The American Cancer Society estimated that roughly 228,000 new cases of this devastating disease would be diagnosed during 2013, and that roughly 159,000 deaths would be caused by lung cancer during the same year.

To put this in perspective, this means nearly 1 out of every 14 people in the United States will receive a lung cancer diagnosis at some point in their lifetime.

If you or someone you love receives a diagnosis of lung cancer, Anton Bilchik MD can answer your questions and discuss treatment options.

Lung cancer tends to be more prevalent in the elderly. Of the cases diagnosed, nearly 70% of them are in people over the age of 65, and fewer than 3% are diagnosed in people under the age of 45.

The prevalence of lung cancer was not always so high. Prior to the 1930s, when smoking became more popular, the trend started climbing. In many countries where public education on the dangers of smoking is coupled with effective cessation programs, the statistics on lung cancer are beginning to show a decline.

In spite of this good news, the fact remains that lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide, for men and women. Where cancer is the cause of the death, lung cancer has surpassed breast cancer as the leading cause of death in women. Anton Bilchik MD can help prepare you for what lies ahead, in the event you are diagnosed with lung cancer.