Nearly Half of Germans Will Develop Cancer, Highlighting Prevention Importance

Recent data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reveal that nearly every second person in Germany will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. Specifically, 49% of men and 43% of women will face a cancer diagnosis, with approximately one in six women and one in seven men affected before the age of 65. In 2023 alone, around 517,800 new cancer cases were registered, including 276,400 cases in men and 241,400 in women. The most common types of cancer reported were prostate cancer with 79,600 cases, breast cancer at 75,900, lung cancer accounting for 58,300, and colorectal cancer tallying 55,300 cases. Together, these constitute nearly half of all new diagnoses.

While the median age for diagnosis is 69 years for both genders, cancer mortality rates have seen a significant decline over the past 25 years. In 2023, about 229,000 deaths were attributed to cancer, with 123,000 deaths in men and 106,000 in women, which marks a reduction of 31% and 21% respectively when adjusted for an aging population.

Experts emphasize that cancer is a disease that can potentially affect anyone, regardless of lifestyle or genetic background. According to Dr. Tobias Heikenwälder, genetics play only a minor role in cancer risk, with just 5-10% of cases linked to familial factors. The majority result from genetic mutations acquired throughout life, influenced strongly by lifestyle and environmental factors. He stresses that while no one is responsible for getting cancer, many cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes that impact the natural process of cancer development.

These findings come in conjunction with the release of the "Cancer in Germany" report by the German Cancer Registry and the RKI, coinciding with World Cancer Day on February 4. This day aims to raise awareness about cancer, its risks, treatment options, and importantly, prevention strategies. The public health message underlines that although cancer is common, its progression can often be slowed or mitigated through informed lifestyle choices.