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Cancer Overview

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13 views3 pages

Cancer Overview

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kBzSFbgjvNiWJwTkvoZmmtCbTWcPLUka/view

Uploaded by

vha63388
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# Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview

## 1. What is Cancer?
Cancer is a broad term for a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled
growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the spread is not controlled, it can result
in death. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, which is made up of
trillions of cells. Normally, human cells grow and divide to form new cells as the
body needs them. When cells grow old or become damaged, they die, and new cells
take their place. However, when cancer develops, this orderly process breaks down.
As cells become more and more abnormal, old or damaged cells survive when they
should die, and new cells form when they are not needed. These extra cells can
divide without stopping and may form tumors.

## 2. Types of Cancer
Cancer is not just one disease but many diseases. There are more than 100 types of
cancer, usually named for the organs or tissues where the cancers form. For
example, lung cancer starts in the lungs, and brain cancer starts in the brain.
Cancers can also be described by the type of cell that formed them, such as an
epithelial cell or a squamous cell.

### Common Types of Cancer:


- **Carcinoma:** The most common type of cancer, originating in the skin or the
tissue that lines organs.
- **Sarcoma:** Cancer that begins in the connective or supportive tissues such as
bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, or blood vessels.
- **Leukemia:** Cancer that starts in the blood-forming tissue such as the bone
marrow and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced.
- **Lymphoma and Myeloma:** Cancers that begin in the cells of the immune system.
- **Central Nervous System Cancers:** Cancers that begin in the tissues of the
brain and spinal cord.

## 3. Causes and Risk Factors


The exact cause of cancer is not fully understood, but it is known to be a complex
interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the common risk factors
include:

- **Genetics:** Family history of cancer.


- **Lifestyle Factors:** Tobacco use, diet, and physical activity.
- **Infections:** Certain viruses and bacteria can increase cancer risk (e.g.,
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B/C).
- **Radiation:** Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and exposure to ionizing
radiation.
- **Chemicals:** Exposure to carcinogenic substances such as asbestos, certain
dyes, and pesticides.

## 4. Symptoms of Cancer
Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type and location of the cancer. Some general
symptoms include:

- Unexplained weight loss


- Fever
- Fatigue
- Pain
- Skin changes (e.g., darker-looking skin, yellowish skin and eyes, reddened skin,
itching, or excessive hair growth)
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Persistent cough or trouble breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Unusual bleeding or discharge
- Lumps or thickening under the skin

## 5. Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cancer usually involves a combination of the following:

- **Physical Exam:** The doctor may feel areas of your body for lumps that may
indicate a tumor.
- **Laboratory Tests:** Blood and urine tests can help identify abnormalities.
- **Imaging Tests:** X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasounds can help locate a
tumor.
- **Biopsy:** A procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed for
examination under a microscope.

## 6. Treatment Options
Cancer treatment can involve one or a combination of several different approaches,
depending on the type and stage of the cancer:

- **Surgery:** Removing the tumor and surrounding tissue during an operation.


- **Radiation Therapy:** Using high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells or
shrink tumors.
- **Chemotherapy:** Using drugs to kill cancer cells.
- **Immunotherapy:** Boosting the body's immune system to fight cancer.
- **Targeted Therapy:** Using drugs to target specific molecules involved in cancer
cell growth and survival.
- **Hormone Therapy:** Removing or blocking hormones that fuel certain cancers,
such as breast and prostate cancers.
- **Stem Cell Transplant:** Replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy bone
marrow.
- **Precision Medicine:** Tailoring treatment based on the genetic makeup of the
cancer.

## 7. Prevention
While not all cancers can be prevented, the following steps can reduce your risk:

- **Avoid Tobacco:** Smoking and chewing tobacco are linked to several types of
cancer.
- **Eat a Healthy Diet:** Focus on plant-based foods, limit processed meats, and
maintain a healthy weight.
- **Stay Physically Active:** Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy
weight and may lower the risk of some cancers.
- **Protect Yourself from the Sun:** Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and
avoid peak sunlight hours.
- **Get Vaccinated:** Some viruses that increase cancer risk, such as HPV and
Hepatitis B, can be prevented with vaccines.
- **Avoid Risky Behaviors:** Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to reduce
the risk of infections that can lead to cancer.

## 8. Living with Cancer


Living with cancer is a challenging journey that affects patients and their
families physically, emotionally, and mentally. Support groups, counseling, and
rehabilitation services can be vital in helping individuals cope. Maintaining a
strong support network and staying informed about the disease and treatment options
can empower patients to make decisions that align with their values and improve
their quality of life.

# Conclusion
Cancer is a complex and diverse set of diseases with significant impacts on
individuals and society. Early detection, advanced treatments, and preventive
measures are crucial in the fight against cancer. Awareness and education about the
disease are vital for reducing the global burden of cancer.

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