The five most common cancers in South Africa
In a nation where health is a growing concern, understanding the prevalent types of cancer is crucial. South Africa, like many countries, faces its own unique challenges in combating this disease.
According to recent medical data, certain types of cancer stand out as the most frequently diagnosed among South Africans.
According to the 2022 National Cancer Registry (NCR) report, the five most common cancers in South Africa are breast, prostate, cervical, lung, and colorectal cancers.
Despite breast cancer having a 25% higher incidence rate among women, cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Overall, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the country.
Modern medicine and advanced screening techniques have significantly improved the success rate of cancer treatments, providing better chances of survival for those diagnosed with cancer.
Prostate cancer
According to Discovery data for men, prostate cancer is in the forefront. This cancer develops in the prostate gland. It is generally slow-growing and therefore may not show symptoms or cause problems for many years.
The decision to screen for prostate cancer is an individual one. Regular prostate checks are recommended, especially for men over the age of 50 or those with a family history of the disease.
When diagnosed in its early stages (cancer is confined to the prostate gland), there are a number of treatment choices available, dependent on several factors, and may include watchful waiting or active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy (including brachytherapy), hormone therapy and chemotherapy.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer tops the list as the most common cancer affecting women in South Africa. According to CANSA breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among South African women of all races, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 27.
Although the risk of breast cancer increases with age, many women under 40 have also been diagnosed with the disease. Understanding this risk can help promote early detection and improve outcomes for women across the country.
Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer, which affects the colon or rectum, is another major concern. Symptoms may not be obvious until the disease has progressed, making routine screenings essential.
A healthy diet rich in fibre, along with regular exercise, can help reduce the risk.
Cervical cancer: Preventable with screening
Cervical cancer occurs when cells in the cervix become cancerous. It is the second most common cancer among women in South Africa and the third most common worldwide.
According to the Western Cape Government, South Africa has a cervical cancer rate of 22.8 to 27 cases per 100,000 women, compared to the global average of 15.8.
Each year, approximately 5 743 new cases are reported in South Africa, leading to 3 027 deaths.
Remarkably, 99% of cervical cancer cases are linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). The HPV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer and other cancers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
The vaccine protects against the types of HPV that are most commonly associated with throat, cervical, anal and other genital cancers.
It’s less common in developed countries than in developing countries because of the use of Pap smears to detect the cells that cause this form of cancer when they are still in a pre-cancerous state.
Cervical cancer remains a significant issue, despite being largely preventable through regular screenings such as Pap smears and HPV vaccinations for young women.
Lung cancer
According to the Cancer Association of South Africa South Africa lung cancer is among the top 3 cancers in men and women lung cancer is ranked 7th.
Worldwide more than 2 million new cases and almost 1.8 million deaths from lung cancer occurred in 2018. In South Africa, lung cancer ranks as the number 1 cause of cancer deaths.
Early detection is key to fighting cancer
While these cancers vary in their causes and risk factors, awareness and early detection are universally critical. Understanding the signs and symptoms, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and participating in routine screenings can significantly improve outcomes.
In the battle against cancer, knowledge is power. By familiarising ourselves with the most common types of cancer in South Africa and taking proactive steps towards prevention and early detection, we can collectively work towards reducing its impact on our communities.
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritise your health because awareness today can save lives tomorrow.