What Is Cancer?

Cancer is a broad group of disease involving unregulated cell growth. Cancer cells divide and grow uncontrollably forming malignant tumors which may invade nearby parts of the body. The cancer may also spread to more distant parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream. Not all tumors are cancerous, benign tumors (these are tumor that do not pose any threat) do not invade neighboring tissues and do not spread throughout the body. There are over 200 different known cancer that affect humans. The causes of cancer are diverse, complex and only partially understood. Many things are known to increase the rate of cancer including tobacco use, dietary factors, certain infection, and exposure to radiation, lack of physical activity, obesity and environmental pollutant. These factors can directly damage genes or combine with existing genetic factors within the cells to cause cancerous mutation. Approximately 5 – 10% of cancers can be traced directly to inherited genetic defects. Many cancer could be prevented by not smoking, eating more vegetables, fruits and whole grains, eating less meat and refined carbohydrate, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, minimizing sunlight exposure and been vaccinated against some infectious diseases. Cancer can be detected in a number of ways including a presence of certain signs and symptom, screening tests or medical imaging. The chances of surviving the disease vary greatly by the types and location of the cancer and the extent of disease at the start of the treatment. While cancer can affect people of all ages, a few types are more common in children, the risk of developing cancer increases with age as lifestyle changes occur in the developing world.

TYPES OF CANCER TREATMENT

There are many types of cancer treatment. The types of treatment that you receive will depend on the type of cancer you have and how advanced it is.

Some people with cancer will have only one treatment. But most people have a combination of treatments, such as surgery with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. When you need treatment for cancer, you have a lot to learn and think about. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and confused. But, talking with your doctor and learning about the types of treatment you may have can help you feel more in control.