What is the leading cause of cancer deaths among both men and women?

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among both men and women due to several key factors. It has a high mortality rate because it is often diagnosed at a late stage when the disease has progressed significantly. The symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions, which delays diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, lung cancer is primarily associated with smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, which are prevalent risk factors.

Unlike other cancers such as breast or prostate cancer, which have better screening and detection measures, lung cancer has historically seen lower early detection rates. Even when detected early, lung cancer can be aggressive and less responsive to treatment compared to other forms of cancer, further contributing to its high death rate. Thus, the combination of late-stage diagnosis, aggressive nature, and risk factors makes lung cancer the leading cause of cancer-related fatalities.