Cancer
From H4KS
Cancer[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
Ongoing research in cancer includes:
- Understanding the genetic basis of cancer
- Developing new treatment modalities
- Improving early detection methods
- Exploring personalized medicine approaches
References[edit]
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
