Cancer Survival Rates Up in U.S.

The American Cancer Society says the United States is making progress against several of its deadliest and most common cancers.

In women, the death rate from lung cancer has stayed about the same for the first time. This is good news after years of increase.

Some cancers can be prevented or treated, especially if found early. Cancer is the name for a group of diseases. All involve the uncontrolled growth and spread of cells that are not normal. Cell growth and division are controlled by genes. Some cancers are linked to family genetics. Pollution and chemicals can also raise a person's risk of cancer.

Smoking causes about one-third of all cancer deaths. Poor diet and a lack of exercise are blamed for another third in the United States.

Hepatitis and other infections will cause an estimated seventeen percent of new cancers worldwide this year. Such cancers are especially common in developing countries, and many of these cases can also be prevented.