This close contact with cancer often brings an awareness of others who also have cancer and may lead to the perception that there is an unusually large number of individuals with cancer in one's community or workplace. People often suspect that the cancers are caused by hazardous substances in the environment. Because of increased awareness about cancer and the search for cancer causes, some people contact the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services or their local health department. This fact sheet addresses some key issues in evaluating cancers in communities. We hope it is helpful.
Cancer is more common than most people realize.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than one out of three Americans now living will eventually have cancer. As a result, over the years, cancer will strike most households. Because public health and medicine have conquered many infectious diseases, cancer has become the second leading cause of death in the United States, following heart disease. Given these statistics, it is not surprising to know several people in one's neighborhood or workplace who have cancer. Cancer is not just one disease.