What is Cancer ?
Cancer is a broad term for a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. The body is made up of trillions of cells that normally grow, divide, and die in a regulated manner. However, in cancer, this process goes awry, leading to cells that grow uncontrollably and can form masses called tumors. These tumors can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis.
There are many different types of cancer, typically named for the part of the body where they originate. For example:
- Carcinoma- Cancer that starts in the skin or tissues that line or cover internal organs.
- Sarcoma- Cancer that begins in the bones, cartilage, fat, muscle, or other connective tissues.
- Leukemia- Cancer that begins in the blood-forming tissues, such as the bone marrow, leading to an overproduction of abnormal blood cells.
- Lymphoma- Cancer that starts in the cells of the immune system.
Common Risk Factors:
- Tobacco use- Smoking and chewing tobacco are major causes of cancer.
- Diet and physical activity- Poor diet, lack of exercise, and being overweight increase the risk.
- Family history- Some types of cancer can be hereditary.
- Environmental exposures- Certain chemicals, radiation, and other factors can increase the risk of cancer.
- Age- The risk of developing cancer increases with age.
Symptoms:
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer and where it is located, but common signs may include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Pain
- Skin changes (such as unusual moles or sores that don't heal)
- Persistent cough or difficulty breathing
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Treatment:
Treatment options depend on the type, stage, and location of cancer, as well as the general health of the patient. Common treatments include:
- Surgery- Removing the tumor or cancerous tissue.
- Chemotherapy- Using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
- Radiation therapy- Using high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy- Boosting or restoring the body's immune system to fight cancer.
- Targeted therapy- Targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes, so regular screenings and awareness of symptoms are important for managing the risk of cancer.
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