In this article, we will discuss the 5 deadliest cancers in the U.S. To go through our detailed analysis and recent updates regarding cancer research and the oncology market, go directly to the 15 Deadliest Cancers in the U.S.
5. Prostate Cancer
Estimated Deaths: 34,700
Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting males in the United States. The American Cancer Society predicts that 288,300 new cases of prostate cancer will emerge in 2023. Prostate cancer is a prevalent condition, affecting approximately 1 in 8 males during their lifetime. However, the encouraging news is that only 1 in 41 individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer will experience fatal outcomes. This positive outcome can be attributed to effective treatments available for early-stage cases and the typically slow-growing nature of the cancer in advanced stages. Hence, the high amount of death can be attributed to how common it is, rather than how deadly.
4. Breast Cancer
Estimated Deaths: 43,700
Breast cancer is cancer that is found in the tissue of the breast. While it can affect both sexes, it is far more common in women than men. Mainly occurring in middle-aged and older women, it makes up about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers each year. Despite being the second leading cause of cancer death in women, breast cancer death rates have consistently and significantly decreased since 1989, with a remarkable overall decline of 43% as of 2020. This positive trend is attributed to multiple factors, including the early detection of breast cancer through screening methods, heightened awareness about the disease, and advancements in treatment options.
3. Pancreatic Cancer
Estimated Deaths: 50,550
Pancreatic cancer refers to abnormal cells in the pancreas growing and dividing out of control and form tumors. The most common type of cancer that forms in the pancreas begins in the cells that line the ducts that carry digestive enzymes out of the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer is rarely detected at its early stages when it’s most curable. This is because it often doesn’t cause symptoms until after it has spread to other organs. The ACS estimates that about 50,550 people diagnosed with the disease will succumb to it in 2023.
2. Colorectal Cancer
Estimated Deaths: 52,550
Colorectal cancer, commonly known as colon cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon). While colon cancer primarily impacts older adults, it can occur at any stage of life. The disease typically initiates with the development of small, noncancerous clusters of cells called polyps along the inner lining of the colon. Over time, certain polyps have the potential to transform into colon cancers. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States.
1. Lung and Bronchial Cancer
Estimated Deaths: 127,070
Lung cancer, also known as bronchogenic carcinoma, refers to the formation of tumors within the lung parenchyma or bronchi. It stands as a prominent contributor to cancer-related fatalities in the United States. Notably, since 1987, lung cancer has claimed more lives among women than breast cancer. While the cure rate can be as high as 80% to 90% for patients who have small, early-stage lung cancer, the rates drop dramatically as the tumor becomes more advanced and involves lymph nodes or other parts of the body. By far the deadliest cancer in the U.S., Lung and Bronchial cancer is expected to claim about 127,070 lives in 2023.
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