Editing Cancer (section)

= Cancer =

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the growth is not controlled, it can lead to death. 

== Types of Cancer ==
Cancer can be classified into several types based on the tissue of origin:
* '''Carcinomas''': Cancers that originate in the skin or tissues that line internal organs.
* '''Sarcomas''': Cancers that arise from connective tissues such as bone, cartilage, fat, and blood vessels.
* '''Leukemias''': Cancers that begin in the blood-forming tissue, such as the bone marrow, and result in high numbers of abnormal blood cells.
* '''Lymphomas''': Cancers that begin in the immune system.
* '''Central Nervous System Cancers''': Cancers that begin in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord.

== Causes ==
Cancer can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
* Genetic predisposition
* Environmental factors (e.g., exposure to carcinogens)
* Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, diet, physical activity)
* Infections (e.g., certain viruses and bacteria)

== Symptoms ==
Symptoms of cancer can vary widely depending on the type and location of the cancer. Common symptoms include:
* Unexplained weight loss
* Fatigue
* Pain
* Skin changes
* Changes in bowel or bladder habits

== Diagnosis ==
Diagnosis of cancer typically involves:
* Medical history and physical examination
* Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, CT scans, MRIs)
* Biopsy to examine tissue samples
* Blood tests

== Treatment ==
Treatment options for cancer may include:
* Surgery to remove tumors
* Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells
* Chemotherapy to use drugs to kill cancer cells
* Immunotherapy to boost the body's immune response
* Targeted therapy to attack specific cancer cells

== Prevention ==
Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing cancer:
* Avoiding tobacco use
* Maintaining a healthy diet
* Regular physical activity
* Limiting alcohol consumption
* Protecting skin from excessive sun exposure
* Getting vaccinated against certain viruses (e.g., HPV, Hepatitis B)

== Research and Future Directions ==
Ongoing research in cancer includes:
* Understanding the genetic basis of cancer
* Developing new treatment modalities
* Improving early detection methods
* Exploring personalized medicine approaches

== References ==
<pre>
1. American Cancer Society. (2021). "What is Cancer?" Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org
2. National Cancer Institute. (2021). "Cancer Types." Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov
3. World Health Organization. (2021). "Cancer." Retrieved from https://www.who.int
</pre>

== See Also ==
* [[Oncology]]
* [[Cancer Research]]
* [[Cancer Prevention]]
* [[List of Cancers]]

[[Category:Cancer]]
[[Category:Health]]
[[Category:Medical Conditions]]