Types of Cancer
Reviewed by Kamran Mahmood, MD, MPH, Associate Professor of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Board Certified in Pulmonology & Critical Care.
Cancer is one of the leading health challenges worldwide, with millions of new cases each year. While there are more than 100 types of cancer, some occur more frequently and account for the majority of diagnoses.
Understanding the most common cancer types is essential for early detection, prevention, and better treatment outcomes. But it’s equally important to know that a cancer diagnosis can be complex and sometimes uncertain. Different doctors may interpret test results differently, recommend alternative treatment paths, or even provide new clinical trial options.
That’s why learning about these cancers and knowing when to seek a second medical opinion can be life-changing. A second opinion not only confirms your diagnosis but also ensures you have confidence in your treatment plan.
In this guide, we’ll review the 19 most common types of cancer, their key features, and why patients often seek second opinions for each.
Here is the list of cancer types discussed in this article.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. It begins when abnormal cells in breast tissue grow uncontrollably, forming a lump or tumor that may spread if not detected early. Screening with mammography and regular self-checks significantly improve outcomes.
Common signs include a new breast lump, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or changes in breast shape or size. Risk factors include age, family history and BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, dense breasts, and hormonal/reproductive history. Diagnosis typically involves imaging (mammogram/ultrasound/MRI) and a core needle biopsy.
Because treatment pathways differ by stage and receptor status (ER/PR/HER2), many patients seek a second medical opinion to confirm pathology and compare options such as lumpectomy vs. mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and targeted agents. If you’ve had an abnormal mammogram or symptoms, our board-certified doctors offer online consultations to review results and guide next steps. Read our full Breast Cancer guide
Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths and includes non-small cell (NSCLC) and small cell (SCLC) types. It’s most often linked to smoking, but exposure to radon, asbestos, air pollution, and secondhand smoke also increases risk. Early disease can be silent; warning signs include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, hoarseness, wheezing, or unexplained weight loss.
Evaluation may include chest X-ray, CT scan, PET-CT, bronchoscopy or biopsy, and molecular testing. Low-dose CT screening can detect disease earlier in high-risk individuals.
Because staging and biomarkers (EGFR, ALK, KRAS, PD-L1, etc.) drive therapy, a second medical opinion helps confirm the plan surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy and can open access to clinical trials. If you’re symptomatic or screening-eligible, our specialists provide online consultations to assess risk and organize testing. Learn more about Lung Cancer here
Prostate cancer is common in men over 50 and often grows slowly, though aggressive forms do occur. Many men have no symptoms; others may notice urinary changes or pelvic discomfort. Risk rises with age, family history, and BRCA2 mutations; men of African ancestry face higher incidence and mortality.
Workup can include PSA testing, digital rectal exam, prostate MRI, and targeted biopsy. Results are summarized by Gleason grade/Grade Group and stage, which guide management.
Because choices range from active surveillance to surgery (prostatectomy), radiation (external beam or brachytherapy), systemic therapy, or focal therapies, men often seek a second medical opinion to weigh benefits and side effects for quality of life. If you have an elevated PSA or new diagnosis, our urology experts offer online consultations to review results and discuss options.
Explore our Prostate Cancer article
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and is one of the most common cancers worldwide. It often begins as small growths called polyps, which can turn cancerous over time if not detected early. Regular colonoscopies remain one of the most effective tools for prevention and early diagnosis.
Symptoms may include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Risk factors include age (50+), a family history of colorectal cancer, diets high in red or processed meat, obesity, and smoking.
Because treatment can range from surgery and chemotherapy to targeted therapies, patients frequently seek a second medical opinion to confirm staging and ensure the most effective care plan. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms, an online consultation with our board-certified doctors can guide you on whether screening or immediate medical evaluation is needed.
See our detailed Colorectal Cancer article
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year. It is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. The most serious form is melanoma, while basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more common but usually less aggressive.
Early signs include new or changing moles, unusual growths, or sores that don’t heal. Risk factors include fair skin, frequent sunburns, family history, and use of tanning beds. Prevention through sunscreen, protective clothing, and regular skin checks is key.
A second medical opinion is often recommended for skin cancer because pathology reports and biopsy results can sometimes differ between labs. Our specialists provide online consultations to evaluate suspicious skin changes and guide you toward the right next steps.
Read our full Skin Cancer guide.
Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the lining of the bladder, the organ that stores urine. It is more common in men than women and often linked to smoking and chemical exposure.
The most common early symptom is blood in the urine, but patients may also experience pain during urination or increased urinary frequency. Risk factors include age, smoking, exposure to industrial chemicals, and family history.
Because bladder cancer treatments vary — from surgery and immunotherapy to chemotherapy — many patients seek a second medical opinion to confirm staging and avoid unnecessary procedures. For those experiencing symptoms, our doctors offer online consultations to review cases and recommend the most appropriate next steps.
Learn more about Bladder Cancer here
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in the body’s immune defense. The two main types are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which differ in cell type and how they spread.
Symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fever. While the exact cause is unknown, risk factors include a weakened immune system, viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, and family history.
Since treatment can involve chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or even stem cell transplantation, getting a second medical opinion is vital to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best therapy. Patients concerned about symptoms can also schedule an online consultation to discuss testing and referral options.
Read our detailed article on Lymphoma
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, is one of the most common cancers of the urinary system. It often develops silently, with no symptoms in its early stages, making regular health checks critical for detection.
When symptoms do appear, they may include blood in the urine, persistent lower back pain, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and a family history of kidney cancer.
Because treatment options vary from surgery and targeted therapy to immunotherapy patients often benefit from a second medical opinion to confirm their diagnosis and review all available choices. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as blood in the urine, our specialists are available for online consultations to guide you on the next steps.
Read more in our detailed Kidney Cancer article
Uterine cancer, most commonly endometrial cancer, affects the lining of the uterus and is one of the most frequent gynecological cancers. It typically occurs in postmenopausal women and often presents with early symptoms, making detection easier than with other cancers.
Warning signs include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and unexpected weight loss. Risk factors include obesity, hormonal imbalances, late menopause, and family history of uterine or colon cancer.
Treatment can range from surgery to hormonal therapy or radiation, which is why a second medical opinion is valuable to ensure the right plan is chosen. For women experiencing symptoms, our gynecologic specialists provide online consultations to review test results and discuss personalized care.
Explore our comprehensive Uterine Cancer article
Leukemia is a cancer that starts in the blood-forming tissues, usually the bone marrow, and leads to the production of abnormal white blood cells. These cells crowd out healthy blood cells, weakening the immune system and disrupting oxygen transport.
Common symptoms include frequent infections, fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, and bone pain. There are several types of leukemia, including acute and chronic forms, affecting both children and adults.
Since leukemia treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drugs, or stem cell transplantation, patients often seek a second medical opinion to confirm the type of leukemia and explore the best treatment path. For individuals noticing persistent symptoms, an online consultation with our hematology experts can help decide whether further testing is required.
Learn more in our Leukemia guide
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers, often diagnosed at an advanced stage because symptoms are subtle and easily overlooked. The pancreas plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation, and tumors can affect either its exocrine or endocrine functions.
Common symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and digestive issues. Risk factors include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, obesity, and family history.
Because survival rates are low without early intervention, patients often seek a second medical opinion to confirm diagnosis and evaluate eligibility for surgery, chemotherapy, or clinical trials. If you have symptoms or risk factors, our oncologists provide online consultations to help assess your situation and guide your next steps.
Read our full Pancreatic Cancer article
Thyroid cancer develops in the thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, and is one of the most treatable cancers when detected early. It is more common in women and is often found during routine exams or imaging tests for unrelated issues.
Symptoms may include a lump in the neck, voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or swelling in the neck. Risk factors include exposure to radiation, certain inherited genetic conditions, and family history of thyroid disease.
Because treatment may involve surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, or careful monitoring, a second medical opinion can confirm the best approach for each patient’s situation. If you notice thyroid-related symptoms, our board-certified endocrinologists are available for online consultations to review test results and recommend next steps.
See our comprehensive Thyroid Cancer guide
Liver cancer, most commonly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is often associated with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or cirrhosis. It is more common in men and typically diagnosed in advanced stages due to mild or absent early symptoms.
Warning signs include abdominal swelling or pain, jaundice, unintentional weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Risk factors include heavy alcohol use, chronic viral hepatitis, obesity, and fatty liver disease.
Because treatment may involve surgery, liver transplantation, local ablation therapies, or systemic treatments, many patients seek a second medical opinion to confirm the best approach. If you are at risk or experiencing liver-related symptoms, our specialists are available for online consultations to provide timely guidance.
Read more in our detailed Liver Cancer article
Urinary bladder cancer develops in the tissues of the bladder, the organ responsible for storing urine. It is most common in older adults and occurs more frequently in men than women. Smoking is the leading risk factor, along with exposure to certain industrial chemicals.
Common symptoms include blood in the urine, painful urination, increased frequency, and pelvic discomfort. Because these symptoms overlap with less serious conditions, bladder cancer may be overlooked in early stages.
Treatment depends on whether the cancer is non–muscle-invasive or muscle-invasive, and may include intravesical therapy, surgery, radiation, or immunotherapy. Patients often seek a second medical opinion to confirm the stage and compare options. If you notice blood in your urine or persistent urinary symptoms, our doctors are available for online consultations to guide your next steps.
Read our Urinary Bladder Cancer guide
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It is often called a "silent killer" because symptoms are vague and usually appear in later stages.
Common signs include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, difficulty eating, frequent urination, and fatigue. Risk factors include family history, certain genetic mutations (such as BRCA1/2), age, and reproductive history.
Because ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late, patients frequently seek a second medical opinion to confirm the diagnosis and review advanced treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies. Women with concerning symptoms can also schedule online consultations with our gynecologic specialists for guidance and evaluation.
Read our full Ovarian Cancer article
Testicular cancer develops in the testicles, the male reproductive glands responsible for producing sperm and testosterone. It is most common in men aged 15–35 but has one of the highest cure rates when treated early.
Symptoms may include a painless lump in the testicle, testicular swelling, or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. Risk factors include family history, undescended testicles, and previous testicular cancer.
Because treatment can vary from surgery to chemotherapy or radiation many patients benefit from a second medical opinion to confirm staging and ensure the right path forward. For men noticing symptoms, our urology specialists offer online consultations to discuss concerns and arrange next steps.
Explore our detailed Testicular Cancer article
Sarcomas are rare cancers that begin in connective tissues such as muscle, fat, blood vessels, or bone. They are divided into two main groups: soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas (including osteosarcoma).
Symptoms may include swelling or lumps under the skin, persistent pain, or limited range of motion in affected areas. Risk factors are less defined but may include prior radiation exposure, genetic syndromes, or family history of sarcomas.
Because sarcomas are rare and complex, patients often benefit from seeking a second medical opinion at specialized cancer centers to confirm the diagnosis and explore advanced treatment options. If you suspect symptoms or need guidance, our oncology team provides online consultations to help you take timely action.
Bone cancer begins in the cells of the bone (primary bone cancer) or spreads to the bone from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic cancer). The main primary types include osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and Ewing sarcoma, which are more common in children and young adults.
Symptoms may include persistent bone pain, swelling, fractures, or reduced mobility in the affected area. Risk factors include genetic conditions, previous radiation therapy, and certain bone disorders.
Because treatment decisions such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation depend heavily on accurate staging and cancer type, patients often seek a second medical opinion to confirm the best approach. For those experiencing symptoms like bone pain or swelling, our oncologists provide online consultations to help determine the need for further testing.
Read our comprehensive Bone Cancer article
Throat and tongue cancers are part of the broader category of head and neck cancers. They often affect the tissues of the pharynx, larynx, or tongue and may be linked to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Common symptoms include persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, mouth sores, or a lump in the neck. Risk factors include smoking, heavy drinking, HPV infection, and poor oral hygiene.
Because treatment may involve surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy — each with significant impacts on speech, swallowing, and quality of life — many patients turn to a second medical opinion to confirm their options. If you are experiencing concerning throat or tongue symptoms, our board-certified specialists are available for online consultations to guide you on the next steps.
Explore our Throat and Tongue Cancer article
If you’re concerned about symptoms or need expert guidance, our highly trained, American Board-Certified physicians are here to help. We offer online medical consultations and second medical opinions across various specialties to ensure you receive the best care possible. Click here to explore all our specialties and book an online consultation.
Here are some commonly asked questions about cancer to help clarify key concerns.
1. Can all types of cancer be detected by a blood test?
No, not all cancers can be detected with a blood test. While some cancers produce tumor markers in the blood, diagnosis usually requires imaging, biopsy, or other specialized tests. If you’re unsure about your test results, consider an online consultation with our doctors to review them.
2. Can all types of cancer be cured?
Not every cancer is fully curable, especially if diagnosed late. However, many cancers are treatable and manageable, particularly when caught early. A second medical opinion can confirm whether you have access to the most effective treatment options.
3. Which types of cancer are the deadliest?
Cancers such as lung, pancreatic, liver, and advanced-stage breast cancer have some of the lowest survival rates. This is why early detection, accurate diagnosis, and expert-reviewed treatment plans are critical.
4. Which types of cancer are hereditary?
Hereditary cancers include breast, ovarian, colorectal, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. Genetic testing can help identify inherited risks. If you have a family history, our specialists offer online consultations to discuss whether genetic testing is right for you.
5. When should I get a second medical opinion for cancer?
You should consider a second opinion if you have been diagnosed with a serious cancer, your treatment plan is unclear, or you want to confirm all available options. A second opinion can provide peace of mind and sometimes uncover better alternatives.
6. Types of cancer and survival rates ?
Survival rates differ widely based on cancer type, stage at diagnosis, and individual factors. Here's a breakdown of cancers with the highest and lowest survival rates:
Thyroid Cancer : 99.9%
Melanoma of the Skin : 99.6%
Breast Cancer : 99.3%
Testicular Cancer : 99.2%
Uterine Cancer : 94.9%
Pancreatic Cancer : 8.3%
Brain Cancer : 12.9%
Liver Cancer : 13.4%
Esophageal Cancer : 21%
Lung Cancer : 24.8%
Younger individuals under 40 generally have higher survival rates, while early detection through screening programs is critical for improving outcomes.
