Gulf cancer refers to cancer cases that are prevalent in the countries around the Persian Gulf. The Gulf region includes Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Iran and Iraq.

According to recent data, the cancer rate in the Gulf region is the fourth highest in the world.

What Causes Gulf Cancer?

There are several factors contributing to the high incidence of cancer in the Gulf region.

1. Smoking

Smoking is one of the major causes of cancer in the Gulf. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 15 percent of the male population in Gulf countries smokes, and the number of female smokers is also increasing rapidly.

Tobacco use is known to cause lung and oral cancer, and it has also been linked to other types of cancer like pancreatic cancer and bladder cancer.

2. Obesity

Obesity is also a significant cause of cancer in the Gulf.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), obesity is linked to an increased risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer.

3. Lack of Physical Activity

The lack of physical activity is another cause of cancer in the Gulf region. Many people in the Gulf lead sedentary lifestyles, which increase the risk of developing cancer.

Studies have shown that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer.

4. Exposure to Sunlight

The Gulf region is known for its harsh heat and high levels of solar radiation.

Overexposure to sunlight can cause skin cancer, and many people in the Gulf have a darker skin tone that is less effective in protecting them from the sun’s harmful rays. It is essential to avoid spending too much time in the sun and to wear protective clothing and sunscreen when outdoors.

5. Genetic Factors

There is evidence that certain genetic factors are linked to an increased risk of developing some types of cancer.

In the Gulf region, consanguineous marriages (marriages between close relatives) are common, and this can increase the likelihood of inheriting genetic predispositions to cancer.

The Most Common Types of Gulf Cancer

The most common types of cancer in the Gulf region are:.

1. Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in Gulf countries, and the incidence rate is rising rapidly.

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According to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Health Ministers’ Council, breast cancer accounted for 28 percent of all cancer cases in women in the Gulf region in 2017.

2. Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second most common type of cancer in the Gulf region. According to the GCC Health Ministers’ Council, colorectal cancer accounted for 11 percent of all cancer cases in women and 13 percent of all cancer cases in men in 2017.

3. Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in Gulf countries. According to the GCC Health Ministers’ Council, prostate cancer accounted for 14 percent of all cancer cases in men in the Gulf region in 2017.

4. Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in men in Gulf countries, and the incidence rate is increasing rapidly.

According to the GCC Health Ministers’ Council, lung cancer accounted for 12 percent of all cancer cases in men in the Gulf region in 2017.

5. Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is on the rise in the Gulf region due to the high levels of sunlight exposure. Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and has a high mortality rate.

According to the Gulf News, the incidence rate of melanoma is higher in Gulf countries than in many other parts of the world.

Prevention and Early Detection

Preventing and detecting cancer early can help reduce the incidence rate of Gulf cancer. Here are some tips:.

1. Quit Smoking

If you smoke, try to quit as soon as possible. Smoking is a significant cause of cancer, and quitting smoking can reduce your risk of developing cancer.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce your risk of developing cancer.

3. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days of the week.

4. Protect Your Skin

Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when outdoors. Avoid spending too much time in the sun, especially during peak hours.

5. Get Regular Checkups

Regular checkups can help detect cancer early when it is most treatable. Get regular mammograms and colonoscopies as recommended by your doctor.

The Bottom Line

Gulf cancer is a significant health issue in the Gulf region, with high incidence rates and several contributing factors. However, taking steps to prevent cancer and detect it early can help reduce the incidence rate and improve survival rates.