Cancer is a group of over 100 diseases that have one critical feature in common: they begin when normal cells mutate and grow uncontrollably, often spreading to other parts of the body. Under normal conditions, our genes send instructions to cells on when to grow, divide, or die. Cancer cells ignore these signals, continuing to grow and divide without restraint.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the U.S.” However, thanks to early detection and advancements in treatment, survival rates have significantly improved over the past two decades.

Types of Cancer

Cancer is generally classified into three broad categories based on where it begins in the body and the type of tissue it affects:

Solid Cancers:
These make up 80% to 90% of all cancer cases. Solid tumors develop in body tissues like the skin, lungs, breasts, or colon. Common types include:

Carcinoma: Originates in epithelial tissues.

Sarcoma: Develops in bones and connective tissues.

Blood Cancers:
These originate in blood-forming tissues or the lymphatic system. Examples include:

Leukemia

Lymphoma

Multiple Myeloma

Mixed-Type Cancers:
These involve characteristics of more than one classification, such as carcinosarcoma or adenosquamous carcinoma.

How Common Is Cancer?

Cancer remains one of the most significant global health challenges. It is the second leading cause of death worldwide. In the United States alone, projections for 2024 estimate that more than 2 million people will be diagnosed with cancer, and over 611,000 will succumb to the disease.

Globally, about 1 in 4 people will develop cancer at some point in their lives, according to data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Raising Awareness in Zimbabwe

While these statistics highlight the global burden, Zimbabwe is not immune. Increased awareness, early screening, and lifestyle changes remain the most effective tools in the fight against cancer.

Healthcare professionals and advocacy groups in Zimbabwe continue to call for vigilance, early detection, and government support to improve access to cancer care and treatment.

Source: Cleveland Clinic (www.clevelandclinic.org)
Compiled by: Zim Citizen News Health Desk