|
microbiome dietWritten ByPartha Nandi, MD

While some health statistics seem to be getting worse each year, there’s some good news when it comes to cancer deaths. The American Cancer Society is calling the recent historic drop in cancer death rates β€˜the biggest single-year drop ever.’ As a medical doctor, I see firsthand how devastating cancer can be to my patients and their loved ones. The latest report comparing 2016 and 2017 saw a 2.2% drop in cancer deaths. Cancer death rates peaked in 1991 and they’ve been steadily declining over the years since. Since then, the rate has fallen by 29%, which roughly translates to 2.9 million fewer cancer deaths. But, the sharp decline in just one year is amazing!

Why Has There Been A Sharp Decline In Cancer Deaths?

Well, there are a few contributing factors. We’re seeing a huge decline in lung cancer deaths specifically. Not only are fewer people smoking, but medical advancements such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy treatment, and improved surgical techniques are all positively contributing to the fight against cancer. We’re also seeing a notable decline in the number of deaths from the deadly skin cancer known as melanoma. This is also likely the result of breakthrough treatments. Now, something that everyone can do to reduce their risk of dying from melanoma is to see your family doctor regularly and get appropriate screenings and tests done. Early detecting has contributed to survival rates. The earlier a cancer is found, the greater the chance of beating it or living longer.Β 

Will Cander Rates Continue To Fall?

I can’t tell you how much I’d like to answer this question with a β€˜yes’, but, unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Our society continues to grow in terms of weight, which can undermine the progress being made on fighting cancer. In fact, 20% of all cancers have been linked to an excess of body fat. And 70% – 90% of cancers are caused by lifestyle and environmental factors. So, while it’s great that cancer numbers are falling, it’s still of the utmost importance to take care of our health by eating nutritious foods, avoiding smoking and drinking too much alcohol, getting enough sleep, and moving our bodies.

About the author

Partha Nandi, MD

Partha Nandi M.D., F.A.C.P. is the creator and host of the internationally syndicated medical lifestyle television show, Ask Dr. Nandi.

A practicing physician and a renowned international speaker, his appearances include TEDx, college commencements, numerous charity functions, premier medical meetings such as Digestive Disease Week, and nationally syndicated television programs such as The Katie Couric Show.

Dr. Nandi has partnered with the Ministry of Health in multiple countries, including Jamaica and India, and has collaborated with The World Health Organization in multiple areas throughout the globe, Dr. Nandi delivers passionate and inspiring talks to diverse audiences.

He continues to travel internationally for conferences and symposia, meeting with global health leaders on his quest to improve health care quality, access, and to empower people across the world β€œTo Be Your Own Health Hero.”

DrNandi@AskDrNandi.com

Similar Posts

Gut Bacteria May Not Recover For Over 6 Months After Antibiotics

Gut Bacteria May Not Recover For Over 6 Months After Antibiotics

ByPartha Nandi, MD

The gut microbiome is essential in keeping our bodies healthy and functioning correctly. While many things can alter the balance of this miniature ecosystem, researchers have found a concerning link between gut bacteria and antibiotics. Since antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria, the microbiome can be disrupted for up to 6 months after treatment. Of…

Balancing Act: How Vision and Inner Ear Health Shape Your Posture
|

Balancing Act: How Vision and Inner Ear Health Shape Your Posture

ByPartha Nandi, MD

When we talk about posture, the first image that often springs to mind is someone slouched over their desk, and we’re quick to attribute this to their inability to simply sit up straight. We’ve all heard those common refrains: “Stand tall!” “Don’t slouch!”  Yet, is the underlying cause of posture merely a lack of effort…

Dementia: The Sign Of Brain Decline That Can Be Spotted In The Face ‘In The Early Stages’
| |

Dementia: The Sign Of Brain Decline That Can Be Spotted In The Face ‘In The Early Stages’

ByPartha Nandi, MD

Dementia is not a single disease; rather, it is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of specific medical conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease. (10) If dementia hits your family it can be devastating. Therefore, many of us listen to every brain expert we can in order to learn how to reverse dementia, or communicate…

Top 5 Pesticide-Ridden Tea Brands and Safer Alternatives
| | | | | | | |

Top 5 Pesticide-Ridden Tea Brands and Safer Alternatives

ByPartha Nandi, MD

Tea is revered for its multitude of health benefits and is the second most consumed beverage in the world, after water. However, not all tea is created equal. Some tea brands contain harmful pesticides, including the widely used glyphosate. Tea lovers need to be aware of these hidden dangers and choose healthier alternatives. In this…

Do You Know What’s in Your Child’s Food?
|

Do You Know What’s in Your Child’s Food?

ByPartha Nandi, MD

It can be difficult to know exactly what you’re feeding your family these days. There are confusing food-labeling terms that are often mere marketing ploys rather than helpful tools. While labels like β€˜reduced fat,’ β€˜low calorie,’ and β€˜low sugar’ may sound enticing, it oftentimes doesn’t mean the food is any healthier. Let’s take a look…