Cancer 101-all you need to know about cancer

Introduction:

Cancer is a disease that is characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. It can affect any part of the body and can lead to serious health complications if not treated early. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, with an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018 alone. In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about cancer, including its types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Types of Cancer:

There are more than 100 different types of cancer, and they are grouped based on the type of cell they originate from. Some of the common types of cancer include:

1. Carcinomas: These are the most common types of cancer and develop in the epithelial cells that line the body's organs and tissues. They can affect the skin, lungs, breasts, and other organs.
2. Sarcomas: These cancers develop in the connective tissues such as bones, muscles, and blood vessels.
3. Leukemias: This type of cancer affects the blood cells and bone marrow, which produces blood cells.
4. Lymphomas: These cancers develop in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for fighting infections.
5. Myelomas: These cancers affect the plasma cells, which produce antibodies to help fight infections.

Causes of Cancer:

Cancer is caused by mutations in the DNA of cells that control their growth and division. These mutations can be inherited from parents or acquired during a person's lifetime. Some of the known risk factors for cancer include:

1. Genetic factors: Certain genetic mutations or inherited gene changes can increase the risk of developing cancer.
2. Environmental factors: Exposure to harmful substances such as tobacco, radiation, and chemicals can damage the DNA and lead to cancer.
3. Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of cancer.
4. Age: As a person gets older, their cells are more likely to accumulate genetic damage over time, increasing the risk of cancer.
5. Viral and bacterial infections: Some viruses and bacteria, such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Helicobacter pylori, can cause changes in the cells that may lead to cancer.
6. Hormonal factors: Changes in hormone levels, such as estrogen and testosterone, can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer.
7. Chronic inflammation: Long-term inflammation caused by conditions like ulcerative colitis or hepatitis can increase the risk of developing cancer.
8. Family history: Having a family history of cancer can increase the risk of developing the same type of cancer.
9. Previous cancer treatment: Certain cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy, can damage healthy cells and increase the risk of developing cancer in the future.
10. Unknown factors: In some cases, the cause of cancer may be unknown, and it may develop without any identifiable risk factors.
    
    
    

Symptoms of Cancer:

The symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer, its location, and how advanced it is. Some of the most common symptoms include:

1. Unexplained weight loss: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying can be a sign of cancer.
2. Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak, even after getting enough rest, can be a symptom of cancer.
3. Fever: A persistent fever that is not caused by an infection or other known cause can be a sign of cancer.
4. Pain: Persistent or worsening pain in a specific area of the body can be a symptom of cancer.
5. Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Changes in bowel movements or urination, such as blood in the urine or stool, can be a sign of cancer.
6. Skin changes: Changes in the color, shape, or size of a mole or other skin growth can be a sign of skin cancer.
7. Persistent cough or hoarseness: A persistent cough or hoarseness that does not go away can be a symptom of lung, throat, or other types of cancer.
8. Difficulty swallowing: Difficulty swallowing or feeling like food is getting stuck in the throat can be a sign of esophageal or stomach cancer.
9. Changes in a breast: Any changes in the size, shape, or appearance of a breast, including lumps or nipple discharge, can be a sign of breast cancer.
10. Unexplained bleeding: Bleeding from any part of the body that is not normal, such as blood in the urine, stool, or coughing up blood, can be a sign of cancer.

It is important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosis of Cancer:

Several tests may be performed to diagnose cancer. These include:

1. Physical exam: A doctor may perform a physical exam to check for any lumps or abnormalities.
2. Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI can help detect tumors in the body.
3. Biopsy: A small sample of tissue may be removed and examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous.
4. Blood tests: Some cancers can be detected through a blood test by looking for specific markers released by cancer cells.

Treatment of Cancer:

Cancer treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. The most common treatment options include:

1. Surgery: This involves removing the cancerous tumor from the body.
2. Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
3. Alternative medicine: This involves the use of herbs either to cure or manage symptoms or side effects of cancer especially from use of conventional treatments like chemotherapy. The combined use of alternative medicine with conventional medicine is known as integrative medicine.
4. Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells.
5. Immunotherapy: This treatment uses the body's immune system to fight and destroy cancer cells.

Prevention of Cancer:

While some risk factors for cancer, such as genetics, cannot be controlled, there are steps individuals can take to reduce their risk. These include:

1. Quit smoking and avoid tobacco use.
2. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
3. Avoid excessive exposure to UV radiation.
4. Limit alcohol consumption.
5. Get vaccinated against viruses that can cause cancer, such as HPV and Hepatitis B.
6. Avoid junk/contaminated food and water.
7. Avoid toxic or radioactive substances.
8. Maintain good sanitation and personal hygiene.
9. Do regular cancer screening.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, cancer is a complex disease that can affect anyone at any age. However, with early detection and proper treatment, the chances of survival are significantly improved. It is essential to lead a healthy lifestyle, undergo regular medical check-ups, and seek medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms. Remember, early detection saves lives.

Sources:

1. American Cancer Society. (2021). What is Cancer? https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-basics/what-is-cancer.html
2. National Cancer Institute. (2021). Cancer Causes and Prevention.   https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention
3. World Health Organization. (2018). Cancer. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
4. Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org
5. ISBN: 978-1561487176