What is Cancer | Types of Cancer, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Preventions

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells divide and spread in an uncontrolled way, forming a mass of tissue called a tumor. Not all tumors are cancerous; tumors can be benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Types of cancer:

1. Carcinomas: cancer that begins in cells that make up the skin or the tissue that covers internal organs.
2. Sarcomas: cancer that begins in cells that make up the body's connective tissues, such as bones, cartilage, and muscle.
3. Leukemias: cancer that begins in blood-forming cells.
4. Lymphomas: cancer that begins in cells of the immune system.
5. CNS (central nervous system) cancers: cancer that begins in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord.

Causes of cancer:

The exact causes of cancer are not fully understood, but it is thought to develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some common causes of cancer include:

1. Tobacco use
2. Alcohol consumption
3. Sun exposure
4. Infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV)
5. Certain chemicals and pollutants
6. Poor diet and physical inactivity
7. Family history of cancer

Symptoms of cancer:

The symptoms of cancer vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some common symptoms of cancer include:

1. Fatigue
2. Pain that does not go away
3. Unintended weight loss
4. Skin changes, such as yellowing or darkening
5. Changes in bowel or bladder habits
6. Persistent coughing or hoarseness

Diagnosis of cancer:

Diagnosis of cancer usually begins with a physical exam, followed by laboratory and imaging tests, such as blood tests, biopsy, CT scan, MRI, and PET scan.

Treatment of cancer:

Treatment of cancer depends on the type, stage, and location of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health. Some common treatments for cancer include:

1. Surgery
2. Radiation therapy
3. Chemotherapy
4. Targeted therapy
5. Immunotherapy

Home remedies for cancer: 

There is currently no scientific evidence to support the use of home remedies for the treatment of cancer. While home remedies may provide some relief for symptoms related to cancer, such as skin dryness or itching, they should not be used as a substitute for standard medical care.

Preventions of cancer:

There is no guaranteed way to prevent cancer, but there are several steps that you can take to reduce your risk of developing this disease:

1. Don't smoke or use tobacco products
2. Eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight
3. Exercise regularly
4. Limit alcohol consumption
5. Protect your skin from the sun
6. Get vaccinated against certain cancers, such as HPV
7. Avoid exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants

It is important to be proactive about your health and to seek regular check-ups with a healthcare professional. Early detection is key to ensuring the best possible outcome for people with cancer.

 

A Video on What is cancer? & What causes cancer and how is it treated?

Video By Cancer Centre