Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which cancer type leads to the highest mortality rates in both men and women?

1. Breast cancer

2. Colon cancer

3. Prostate cancer

4. Lung cancer

The correct answer is: Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women, significantly surpassing other types in terms of mortality rates. This can be attributed to several factors, including the aggressive nature of lung cancer, its tendency to metastasize early, and the high prevalence of smoking, which is a major risk factor. Statistics indicate that lung cancer accounts for a substantial proportion of cancer fatalities, largely because it is often diagnosed at later stages when treatment options are less effective. Public health efforts to reduce smoking rates and promote early detection have been implemented, but the impact of these strategies might take time to reflect in reduced mortality. Breast cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer, while serious and life-threatening, do not contribute to as many deaths overall as lung cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women but has better survival rates due to advancements in screening and treatment. Colon cancer, though also treatable, does not have the same impact on mortality as lung cancer. Prostate cancer, while prevalent in men, typically has a more favorable prognosis and lower mortality rate compared to lung cancer. Thus, lung cancer remains the most critical focus for cancer prevention and treatment efforts to effectively reduce mortality rates in both genders.