When looking at total annual deaths from cancer, it is clear that lung cancer is the deadliest type in the United States. Experts note that it takes more lives every year than breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer combined.
That is not to downplay the severity of these other types of cancer, but just to show the serious risk from lung cancer. A proper diagnosis is so important — as is getting that diagnosis as early as possible — if people are to have a better chance of surviving this dangerous disease.
Now, you may be wondering if gender plays into the statistics at all. Are you at more risk if you are a man or a woman?
The statistics from the American Cancer Society show that men do face slightly higher risks. For 2018, they estimate that 83,550 men will pass away from lung cancer, while the same is true for 70,500 women. If those estimates prove correct, that means there will be 154,050 total deaths.
The society also notes that there should be around 121,680 new lung cancer cases for men in 2018, while women will see about 112,350 new cases. That means there will be a total of 234,030 new cases during the year.
Of course, gender is not the only factor to consider. Issues like age, whether or not someone smokes and what hazardous materials a person has been exposed to all play a huge role.
Regardless of your gender, if you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, make sure you know what legal options you have.