(AP)–New numbers show that lung cancer has passed breast cancer as the leading cause of cancer death in women in rich countries.

The American Cancer Society says lung cancer deaths are rising now because of increases in smoking rates several decades ago. Lung cancer has been the top cancer killer for men globally since the 1950s.

Since then, smoking rates have been leveling off or falling in many countries and there are signs that lung cancer deaths are declining as well.

Doctors say that half of all cancers are preventable by quitting or not smoking, eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise. Some vaccines also help prevent cervical and liver cancer.

The report was released Wednesday.