Final answer:
Cancer is a group of diseases caused by abnormal cell growth, with a variety of genetic and environmental risk factors contributing to its rise. Increases in life expectancy and diagnostic improvements have contributed to the perception of rising cases. Although cancer death rates have decreased, cancer remains a leading cause of death globally.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cancer refers to a group of diseases with more than 100 variations, all characterized by abnormal cell growth that can invade or spread to other parts of the body. The rise in cancer cases can be attributed to a range of factors, including but not limited to an aging population, environmental factors, and inherited genetic predispositions. Environmental factors involve exposure to carcinogens such as tobacco smoke, radiation, and certain chemicals, while approximately 10 percent of cancers stem from a strong genetic influence, like BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increasing the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Cancer rates are increasing as individuals live longer and are more likely to encounter these risk factors over their lifetimes. Moreover, as our ability to diagnose and record cancer incidence improves, there appears to be a rise in cases reported. This, coupled with the reduction of mortality from other diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, enables cancer to become a more prevalent cause of death.
Despite the decrease in cancer death rates over past decades due to advancements in medical treatments and prevention measures, there is still a great need for ongoing research and prevention strategies to reduce the burden of cancer worldwide.