Malignant tumors are the second leading cause of mortality in Moldova, after cardiovascular diseases. The most frequent forms are breast, colorectal, prostate, skin and trachea cancer, altogether accounting for over 52% of the total. The data are presented by the National Agency for Public Health in the context of World Cancer Day, marked annually on February 4.

According to the Agency, the mortality rate from cancerous tumors in 2022 was 225.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to as 221.2 cases in 2021.

Specialists warn that a third of cancer deaths are caused by tobacco consumption, high body mass index levels, alcohol consumption, low fruit and vegetable consumption and lack of exercise. Also, hepatitis B and C, the human papillomavirus (HPV) and other such viruses substantially increase the risk of cancers, in particular cervical and liver cancers.

“The World Cancer Day is much more than a calendar event. It is a multi-year campaign aimed at increasing exposure, broad engagement and ultimately generating significant impact. Together, it’s time to close the gap in cancer care”, the Agency said in a statement.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 1 in 6 deaths globally. In Europe, there were more than 1.3 million cancer-related deaths in 2022.

Primary prevention, early detection and research, including behavioral research, are recognized by the World Health Organization as key factors in developing an effective public health strategy for cancer control. According to health specialists, up to 3.7 million lives could be saved each year through appropriate prevention strategies, early detection and timely quality treatment.