As this sixth edition of Impact of Cancer on Texas goes to press, cancer remains our state's second leading killer, claiming more than 30,000 Texans' lives each year. During the early part of the next century, cancer is expected to overtake heart disease as the leading cause of death in Texas and in the nation.

Cancer represents more than 100 distinct diseases that occur in all parts of the human body and are characterized by uncontrolled reproduction of abnormal cells. Despite similar processes of cell mutation and proliferation, each type of cancer possesses distinct risk factors and manifestations that require a variety of therapeutic and preventive measures.

Cancer affects all of us in one way or another. It creates a huge strain on Texas' economy: each year billions of dollars are spent on health care and more than two billion dollars in wages are lost. Even more devastating is the emotional toll cancer takes on its victims as well as their families and friends. Many of us have been forced to deal with cancer on a very personal basis, and this face-to-face encounter can help renew our dedication to fight both its causes and effects.

Those of us who have joined together in the fight against cancer face seemingly insurmountable odds, but we have only to look back a few years to realize that our efforts are being rewarded. Almost yearly, new discoveries help physicians detect various forms of the disease at earlier stages, resulting in decreased mortality rates and increased rates of cure. In addition, new treatment options are being developed that are less invasive, more effective, and less ravaging to the patient. Our ultimate goal ­p; the total eradication of cancer ­p; is ambitious, but it is increasingly being viewed as achievable.

Prevention is one of the greatest weapons we have against cancer. We must continue to inform Texans, especially our young people, about the life-style choices they can make that will significantly reduce their risks of developing cancer. These choices, such as proper nutrition, limited exposure to the sun, and avoidance of the use of tobacco, will provide benefits not only in cancer prevention but also in other areas of personal health.

Impact of Cancer on Texas is an effective tool for public health planners, policy-makers, and health care professionals in the battle against cancer in this state. Each new edition shows us where we are and where we must go if we are to win this fight. The Texas Cancer Council expresses its appreciation to the Texas Cancer Data Center, the Texas Department of Health, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, and the American Cancer Society for their efforts in making this publication possible.

James D. Dannenbaum
Chairman, Texas Cancer Council