Cancer

Chronic Disease

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the spread is not controlled, it may result in death. Most types of cancer cells form a lump or mass called a tumor and are named after the part of the body where the tumor originates. Cancer is caused by both external factors (for example, tobacco, chemicals, radiation and infectious organisms) and internal factors (for example, hormones, immune conditions and genetic mutations).  The Burden of Cancer in Missouri - A comprehensive analysis and plan can answer many questions regarding cancer in Missouri and activities to address it.

In the years to come, cancer will affect approximately three of every four Missouri families. About two in five Missourians will eventually develop cancer. Nationally, men have a little less than a one in two lifetime risk of developing cancer; for women, the lifetime risk of developing cancer is a little more than one in three.

In 2006, 28,561 of Missouri’s residents were diagnosed with invasive cancer. This amounted to more than three new cases of cancer diagnosed every hour of every day.  

With an average of 12,406 deaths annually during 2005-2007, cancer is second only to heart disease, as a leading cause of death among adult Missourians.  Specific cancer data for Missouri and for individual counties can be accessed at: BRFSS or Cancer MICA