Lung Cancer Deaths in Israel Expected to Reach 2,000 This Year
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
Approximately 2,000 Israelis are expected to die from lung cancer this year, with 258 new cases diagnosed monthly, according to the Israel Cancer Association. The association warns that Israel's smoking rate is significantly higher than the global average, contributing to the disease's prevalence. Early detection through low-dose CT scans is encouraged for high-risk individuals, while the use of e-cigarettes and hookah is also on the rise.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- About 2,000 Israelis are expected to die from lung cancer in 2024.
- Israel's smoking rate is 24%, about 30% higher than the global average.
- Around 3,100 new lung cancer cases are projected annually until 2026.
- E-cigarette use is at 15% overall, and 24% among 16-24 year olds.
- Early detection via low-dose CT scans is recommended for high-risk individuals.
On International Lung Cancer Awareness Day, the Israel Cancer Association released alarming statistics indicating that approximately 2,000 Israelis are projected to die from lung cancer by the end of 2024. The association estimates that around 3,100 new cases will be diagnosed annually until 2026, averaging 258 cases per month. Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Israel.
The association highlighted that Israel's smoking rate of 24% is about 30% higher than the global average and is a primary driver of future lung cancer incidence. Projections from the International Agency for Research on Cancer suggest that by 2050, approximately 5,230 Israelis could be diagnosed with the disease each year, with 3,650 deaths.
Despite the grim outlook, the association emphasized the importance of early detection. They are urging current and former smokers at high risk to undergo low-dose CT scans. A large UK study found that 76% of lung cancer cases identified through a national screening program were detected at early stages, and the World Health Organization has stated that such screening reduces mortality among high-risk individuals.
Data also reveals a rise in the use of other smoking products: 15% of the population uses e-cigarettes, a figure that jumps to 24% among 16-24 year olds. Hookah use has also increased from 11% to 15% in the past year. The association noted studies indicating the carcinogenic potential of e-cigarettes and a link between diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains and a lower risk of lung cancer. However, they reiterated that quitting smoking and avoiding it altogether remain the most crucial preventive measures.