Iran (IMNA) - According to the report from the National Cancer Control Office, which is based on data collected in 2017 (1396 in the Iranian calendar), breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers are among the most prevalent malignancies nationwide. Dissemination of information regarding diseases such as cancer, especially through official and scientific sources, is an undeniable necessity for enhancing public health. However, this process must be conducted responsibly and with awareness because inducing fear and anxiety—particularly irrational fear that impairs mental well-being and daily functioning—not only fails to aid prevention but may also lead to social isolation, symptom concealment, and delays in seeking treatment. In fact, knowledge should empower individuals rather than cause chronic worry. People must acquire scientifically grounded and realistic awareness to make informed decisions during critical health moments, rather than living in constant fear of illness.
The recorded data from the National Cancer Control Office provides a relative epidemiological picture of cancer types within the country. This analysis aids public health policymakers to design targeted programs for screening, education, and treatment instead of general responses. Moreover, the statistics emphasize that prioritizing prevention—even more than treatment—is essential to reduce the psychological, social, and economic burdens of cancer.
A key finding from these data is the gender-specific prevalence of cancers: men are more frequently diagnosed with prostate, gastric, skin, and colorectal cancers, whereas in women, breast, colorectal, thyroid, skin, and gastric cancers are more common. These differences are not solely attributable to genetic and hormonal factors but are also influenced by social determinants, lifestyle choices, and patterns of healthcare-seeking behaviors.
At the core of many cancers lie genes that normally regulate the cell division process. When these genes become dysfunctional or mutated, cells lose regulatory control and proliferate uncontrollably. These mutations may be hereditary or acquired, and their effects can be exacerbated through interactions with environmental factors such as poor nutrition, pollution, and harmful radiation exposures. A precise understanding of these molecular mechanisms enables clinicians to intervene early and develop personalized therapeutic strategies.
Most Common Cancers in the Country
"The National Cancer Control Office systematically records cancer incidence and periodically publishes reports accessible to the public. It is crucial to raise public awareness about cancer; however, fear-mongering must be avoided. " Ali Akhavan, a radiation oncologist and university faculty member, stated in an interview with IMNA News Agency.
He affirmed that rational concern for maintaining health is natural and necessary, but excessive fear that disrupts daily living is counterproductive. According to the 2017 report, the most prevalent cancers in the country are breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers.
He further clarified that prostate, gastric, skin, and colorectal cancers are predominant in men, whereas breast, colorectal, thyroid, skin, and gastric cancers are most common among women. The genes that govern normal cellular division, when malfunctioning, cause disruptions in cellular life cycles leading to cancer.
Immune System Resistance Against Cancer Cells
Akhavan explained that cancerous cells naturally develop in the body; however, the immune system eliminates most of these abnormal cells. Cancer becomes a health threat only when the immune system fails to control the proliferation of even one such cell. Importantly, cancer is not a singular disease entity but comprises multiple disorders, each with diverse clinical presentations.
Different cancers may manifest variably, depending on their tissue or organ of origin, resulting in distinct symptoms. Therefore, individuals must prioritize their general health to reduce cancer risk. One of the primary diagnostic methods for cancer is biopsy, and timely diagnosis at any stage is critically important for determining appropriate treatment plans.
An extraordinary defense mechanism of the body is its immune system, which continuously identifies and eradicates abnormal and damaged cells. When this natural surveillance is impaired, cancer cells can grow unchecked. This understanding highlights that maintaining overall health through immune support—achieved via adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and proper nutrition—is fundamental. The body’s resistance constitutes the first line of defense against cancer.
Cancer is not a single disease but a collection of cellular disorders with diverse behaviors, and the symptoms vary greatly depending on the affected site. This symptom heterogeneity accentuates the importance of bodily self-awareness. Regular medical check-ups, monitoring bodily changes, and routine screening tests are essential—not only for high-risk populations but also for the general public—to detect abnormalities at the earliest stages.
Early detection differentiates between a manageable therapeutic outcome and a challenging encounter with advanced disease. Techniques such as biopsy, specialized imaging, and blood tests facilitate the identification of cancer during its initial phases. The earlier cancer is diagnosed, the higher the likelihood of favorable treatment responses and fewer physical and psychological complications. Public education regarding symptom recognition and encouragement of routine medical consultations are key elements to prevent irreversible consequences.
Your Comment