April 21, 2024
Cancer is the uncontrolled and abnormal growth of the body’s cells which is characterized by many symptoms, ranging from general discomfort to various diseases. If the spread of cancer is not diagnosed and treated properly, it can result in death of the affected individual.
It is usually caused when genes that control the way our cells function, especially how they grow and divide, is affected or mutated due to one out of several triggering factors.
These genetic changes could either be hereditary or acquired during a person's lifetime as a result of mishaps that might occur during cell division or due to exposure to carcinogens (cancer-inducing agents).
There are more than a hundred different types of cancer Some of the most common cancers include:
1. Breast cancer
2. Lung cancer
3. Leukemia (blood cell cancer)
4. Colon cancer
5. Prostate cancer
Each type of cancer comes with its own set of symptoms, however general signs of cancer include lumps, pain, swelling, weight loss and persistent fatigue.
Early detection of cancer is the most essential part for effective treatment, which varies depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Cancer treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Advancements in medical research, particularly in the field of oncology and radiology continue to improve methods and practices to cure cancer and increase survival rates of individuals.