Cancer, the second leading cause of death among Americans, is responsible for one of every four deaths in the United States. In 2004, more than 560,000 Americans—or more than 1,500 people a day—will die of cancer. More than 18 million new cases of cancer have been diagnosed since 1990, and about 1.4 million new cases will be diagnosed in 2004 alone. This estimate does not include preinvasive cancer or the more than 1 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer expected to be diagnosed this year.
The number of new cancer cases can be reduced substantially, and many cancer deaths can be prevented. Adopting healthier lifestyles—for example, avoiding tobacco use, increasing physical activity, achieving optimal weight, improving nutrition, and avoiding sun exposure—can significantly reduce a person’s risk for cancer. Making cancer screening, information, and referral services available and accessible to all Americans is also essential for reducing the high rates of cancer and cancer deaths.Source: Cancer Facts & Figures 2004, American Cancer Society, 2004
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