WHAT IS CANCER
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. These abnormal cells can invade and damage healthy tissue, including organs
CAUSES OF CANCER
There are many different factors that can cause cancer, and the specific cause of a particular case of cancer may not be known. Some common causes of cancer include:
- Genetics: Some cancers are caused by inherited genetic mutations. For example, people with inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes have an increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.
- Environmental exposures: Certain chemicals and substances in the environment, such as tobacco smoke and radiation, can increase the risk of cancer.
- Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet high in red and processed meats, can increase the risk of cancer.
- Infections: Some viruses and bacteria can cause cancer. For example, the human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause cervical cancer, and hepatitis B and C can cause liver cancer.
- Immune system dysfunction: Some cancer may be caused by a problem with the immune system, which allows cancer cells to grow and spread.
It’s important to note that many people who have risk factors for cancer never develop the disease, and many people who develop cancer have no known risk factors.
TYPES OF CANCER
There are many different types of cancer, and they can occur in almost any part of the body. Some common types include:
- Carcinomas: These are the most common type of cancer and begin in the epithelial cells that line the surface of organs and glands. Examples include lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer.
- Sarcomas: These cancers begin in the bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue. Examples include osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and liposarcoma (cancer of fat cells).
- Leukemias: These cancers begin in the blood-forming cells of the bone marrow and can cause large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced. Examples include acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
- Lymphomas and Myelomas: These cancers begin in the cells of the immune system. Lymphomas such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma starts in the lymphatic system, while myeloma starts in plasma cells.
- CNS cancers: These cancers begin in the brain or spinal cord. Examples include glioblastoma and medulloblastoma.
- Melanoma: A type of skin cancer that begins in the cells that produce pigment.
This is not an exhaustive list but some of the most common types of cancer. Each type of cancer can have different causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments.
SYMPTOMS OF CANCER
The symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the individual person. Some common symptoms of cancer include:
- Fatigue: Many people with cancer experience a persistent feeling of tiredness or exhaustion.
- Pain: Cancer can cause pain in various parts of the body, depending on the location of the tumor.
- Lumps or masses: Cancer can cause lumps or masses to form in the body. These may be felt under the skin, in the breast, or in other parts of the body.
- Changes in the skin: Cancer can cause changes in the skin, such as discoloration or thickening.
- Changes in the nails: Cancer can cause changes in the nails, such as thickening or discoloration.
- Unexplained weight loss: Cancer can cause weight loss that is not related to diet or exercise.
- Changes in the mouth: Cancer can cause changes in the mouth, such as sores or white patches.
- Changes in the urinary or bowel habits: Cancer can cause changes in the urinary or bowel habits, such as blood in the urine or stools.
- Persistent cough or hoarseness: Cancer can cause a persistent cough or hoarseness that does not go away.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other, non-cancerous conditions. However, if you experience any of these symptoms or any other unusual changes in your health, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation.