In 1999, an estimated 129,300 cases of cancer and 63,400 deaths from cancer will occur in Canada. There are many different types of cancers. All of them are characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in some part of the body. About 17,100 deaths due to lung cancer occurred in Canada in 1998, and an estimated 20,400 new cases of lung cancer were diagnosed. Over the past 20 years, the rate of lung cancer has been declining among men and rising among women.
Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among Canadian men.
As the male population ages, prostate cancer will become an important public health issue. Researchers in Canada and around the world are working to develop methods to detect prostate cancer in its early stages. Smoking is a major cause of lung cancer, and one of the most preventable. Colon and prostate cancers are associated with diets high in fat. The other risks Other known risk factors for cancer include workplace hazards, family history, alcohol use, reproductive factors, sexual activity, sunlight, drugs, and ionizing radiation.