Cancer is a scary word for most people. But what exactly is cancer? By learning more about this disease, you can take control of your knowledge and become equipped to recognize and fight this disease.
What is cancer?
Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. 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 cancer develops, this orderly process breaks down. As cells become more abnormal, they continue to divide and spread out of control.
Why is cancer so dangerous?
Cancer is detrimental to the body because the unwanted cells grow into key organs, nerves, or blood vessels and interfere with and impair their function. It can begin in almost any human cell. Usually, new cells form through growth and division. Cells die once they become too old or damaged, and newly formed cells replace them.
What causes cancer?
The most common causes of cancer are due to an individual’s genetics and certain environmental or behavioral triggers. The tendency to develop some types of cancer is believed to be inherited — that is, the genes you were born with might carry a predisposition for cancer. Additionally, there are studies showing that certain foods, environmental factors (think asbestos), and behaviors (smoking, for example) that greatly increase your likelihood of getting cancer.
What are the most popular types of cancer?
There are many different types of cancer, but they all start because of out-of-control cell growth.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to understand the different types and what they mean for your treatment. Here are the top five types of cancer:
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and it can also occur in men. Symptoms of breast cancer may include a lump in the breast, nipple discharge, and changes in the shape or size of the breast.
Lung Cancer
About 230,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer every year. Symptoms of lung cancer may include coughing, shortness of breath, and pain in the chest.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. Symptoms of prostate cancer may include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and pain in the pelvis.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. These cancers can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start. Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits.
Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
Skin cancer starts in various layers of the skin and can spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms of skin cancer may include a change in the size, shape, or color of a mole, and new moles.
Treating Cancer
Cancer treatments vary widely based on the type and severity. At Forsythe Cancer Care Center, we offer a variety of traditional and alternative cancer therapies to help you beat this disease. You can contact us HERE for a consultation.
