Cancer is the uncontrolled growth and spread of cells that may affect almost any tissue of the body. Lung, colorectal and stomach cancer are among the five most common cancers in the world for both men and women. Among men, lung and stomach cancer are the most common cancers worldwide. For women, the most common cancers are breast and cervical cancer.
More than 11 million people are diagnosed with cancer every year. It is estimated that there will be 16 million new cases every year by 2020. Cancer causes 7 million deaths every year—or 12.5% of deaths worldwide.
We now know enough about the causes of cancer to prevent at least one-third of all cancers. Cancer is largely preventable: by stopping smoking, providing healthy food and avoiding the exposure to carcinogens. Information is also available that would permit the early detection and effective treatment of a further one-third of cases. Some of the most frequent cancer types are curable by surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The chance of cure increases substantially if cancer is detected early. There are effective strategies for the relief of pain and the provision of palliative care to all patients and their families, even in low resource settings.
- promotion and strengthening of comprehensive national cancer control programmes;
- building international networks and partnerships for cancer control;
- promotion of organized, evidence-based interventions for early detection of cervical and breast cancer;
- development of guidelines on disease and programme management;
- advocacy for a rational approach to effective treatments for potentially curable tumours;
- support for low-cost approaches to respond to global needs for pain relief and palliative care.
Cancer control is a public health approach aimed at reducing causes and consequences of cancer by translating our knowledge into practice. WHO’s work towards the prevention and control of cancer focuses on these major areas:
The Cancer Programme is a key activity within the Department of Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion.
