Texas Counties With The Highest Cancer Rates

(Texas) In plain English, cancer sucks. The Texas Department of State Health Services reports that 48,000 to 51,000 Texans die from cancer each year.

Cancer is not an easy topic to discuss. However, Texans all over the Lone Star State are talking about cancer rates because it affects so many people. We all know of relatives, friends, co-workers, and others who have been affected by this horrible disease. Cancer knows no boundaries or social or economic status. It can affect anyone at any stage of their life.

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People are walking around East Texas, as well as in the Plains, Panhandle, Gulf Coast, North Central Texas, West, and South Texas, who have no idea that they have some form of cancer. While some forms of cancer are visible, others are not. These forms are commonly referred to as silent killers because oftentimes, when they are discovered, the disease has progressed beyond the point of treatment.

Texas Cancer Rates

In recent years, cancer rates in Texas appear to be on par with or right below the national average. While it is a good sign, it is still awful news for families in Texas to learn about a relative who now has life-changing treatment decisions.

Factors Contributing To Cancer Cases In Texas

Personal habits and genetics are big factors when it comes to cancer rates in Texas. Air pollution, groundwater, and work conditions can increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. Breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers are among the most common in Texas. Additional factors that lead to cancer are tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, and exposure to sunlight.

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Everyone Knows Someone Affected By Cancer

Speaking from experience, I have family members who have been through and survived several different types of cancer. Early detection and diagnosis are key. I have friends who have been through cancer treatments. When we know someone with cancer, we rally around them and show them support as they go through treatment. Treatment is often taxing on the immune system and requires additional time to heal. In some cases, though, more drastic measures must be taken through surgery.

Advanced And Early Screening May Detect Some Cancer Types

Talk to your doctor about the availability of early screening for cancers that appear in your family tree. You can talk about your work environment to see if there are factors that could lead to you developing some form of cancer. The key is talking about it openly with your primary care physician and family. Choose early testing to hopefully help detect or prevent cancer early.