Cancer affects millions of people in the United States and is the second most common cause of death worldwide. Learning more about cancer and personalized cancer treatment approaches can help patients and their families make informed decisions about their care. Here is more information on this disease, its various forms, underlying causes, and available treatment options:
What Is Cancer?
Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow and divide uncontrollably. Normal cells follow a regulated process of growth, division, and death. Cancer cells disrupt this natural cycle by continuing to multiply without stopping and spreading to other parts of the body.
These abnormal cells form masses called tumors. Malignant tumors, which define cancer, can invade nearby tissues and spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to distant parts of the body. The process of cancer spreading from its original location to other parts of the body is called metastasis. This characteristic distinguishes cancer from other diseases, making early detection and cancer treatment valuable.
What Are the Different Types?
Cancer can develop in virtually any part of the body, leading to more than 100 different types. Medical professionals typically classify cancer by the organ or tissue where it originates, known as the primary site. Common types include breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer.
Each type of cancer behaves differently and requires specific treatment approaches. Some cancers grow slowly over many years, while others progress rapidly. The specific characteristics of each cancer type influence treatment decisions and prognosis.
What Causes It?
Cancer develops through a complex interaction of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Age is a key risk factor, as the likelihood of developing cancer increases with advancing years. Genetic factors also play a role in cancer development. Some people inherit mutations that increase their cancer risk, while others develop genetic changes throughout their lifetime due to environmental exposures or normal cellular processes.
Environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to cancer risk. Tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure, and exposure to certain chemicals can increase cancer risk. Infections from viruses, bacteria, or parasites also contribute to some cancer types.
What Are the Symptoms?
Cancer symptoms vary significantly depending on the type and location of the cancer. Many cancers develop without noticeable symptoms in early stages, making regular screening programs integral for early detection. General warning signs include unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, changes in skin appearance, unusual lumps or masses, and persistent pain. Changes in bowel or bladder habits, difficulty swallowing, or a persistent cough may indicate specific cancer types.
What Does Cancer Treatment Involve?
Cancer treatment typically involves one or more therapeutic approaches designed to eliminate cancer cells and prevent their return. Surgery removes cancerous tissue from the body. Surgeons may remove the entire tumor, surrounding tissue, and nearby lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy uses medications to destroy cancer cells throughout the body. These drugs target rapidly dividing cells, which include cancer cells but also some normal cells. This treatment can be administered orally, intravenously, or through other methods, depending on the specific medications used.
Radiation therapy employs high-energy beams to damage cancer cells and prevent their growth. External beam radiation directs energy from outside the body toward the tumor. Internal radiation places radioactive material directly into or near the tumor site.
Personalize Your Approach to Treatment
Cancer treatment requires individualized planning based on cancer type, stage, patient health, and personal preferences. Modern cancer care emphasizes personalized medicine approaches that assess the specific characteristics of each patient’s cancer. If you have cancer, work closely with your healthcare team to understand your particular situation and treatment options.
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