Statistics say lung cancer is the third most common type in the U.S. Skin cancer occupies the top spot. Breast cancer is second (especially among women).
The risk of lung cancer increases with age. In the U.S., most people diagnosed with lung cancer are aged around 65.
Here are some statistics from the American Cancer Society:
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There are about 238,340 newly reported cases of lung cancer. Precisely, around 120,790 in women and about 117,550 in men.
Lung cancer is also a leading cause of death. The average age of the disease-affected patients is around 70. Only a tiny percentage of patients below 45 are affected by the disease.
Men have a 1 in 16-lifetime risk of developing lung cancer, while women have a 1 in 17 chance. Both smokers and non-smokers are included in these statistics. However, the risk is significantly higher for smokers and less for non-smokers.
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Also, there is a positive development. There is a noticeable decline in the number of new lung cancer cases. There is more awareness, and many have quit smoking.
Also, this trend could be attributed to the medical industry’s efforts to enhance the treatment of the disease. As a result, the focus on early detection and prevention is much better. These facts could drive the drop in new cases.