Cancer is a name given to a set of diseases that are characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells, which form tumors. the cancer can start anywhere on the body, however, some types are more common than others. Many types of cancer are curable, and early diagnosis is essential, among other factors, for successful treatment. Among the ways to treat cancer, we can mention surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
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What is cancer?
It is called cancer, or neoplasm, the set of more than 100 diseases that have in common the disordered, uncontrollable and aggressive growth of cells. These cells are capable of invading fabrics and organs and spread throughout the body. When cancer cells spread throughout the body, we say that metastasis has occurred. Cancer leads to the formation of tumors, which are accumulations of cancer cells.
Is every tumor cancer?
When they hear the word tumor, many people associate it with cancer. However,
not every tumor is a type of cancer. Tumor is the name given to the increase in volume of a certain part of the body, which can occur due to overgrowth of cells. This tumor, also called neoplasia, can be benign or malignant, receiving, in the latter case, the name of cancer.THE main difference between a malignant and a benign neoplasm is that, in cancer, the growth is disordered, while, in benign neoplasms, the growth is orderly, with well-defined limits. Cancer is also capable of invading neighboring tissues and organs and causing metastasis, situations that are not observed in benign neoplasms.
What causes cancer?
Cancer can have different causes, and it can occur due to external or internal factors. You external factors they include our lifestyle habits and even substances that are present in the environment. already the internal causes usually refer to factors like mutations genetics and conditions of immune system.
Among these factors, the ones that stand out are the external ones, responsible for almost 80% of all cancers. To exemplify this statement, we can mention prolonged exposure to the sun, which can lead to development of skin cancer, or the foods we eat that are related to various types of cancer. Since external factors can often be avoided, a healthy lifestyle can help prevent the disease.
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What are the main types of cancer?
Cancer can reach different parts of our body. According to the National Cancer Institute (Inca), the main types of cancer are:
- anal cancer
- bladder cancer
- mouth cancer
- esophageal cancer
- Stomach cancer
- liver cancer
- bowel cancer
- laryngeal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Ovary cancer
- pancreatic cancer
- Melanoma Skin Cancer
- Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
- penile cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Lung cancer
- testicular cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- cervical cancer
- Cancer of the body of the uterus
- Cancer of the central nervous system
- Childhood Cancer
- Leukemia
- Hodgkin's Lymphoma
- Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Is cancer curable?
Some cancers have a cure, others, however, are not. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the greater the chances of complete recovery. Hence the importance of carrying out routine exams and always seek medical attention when you notice any changes in your body. Breast cancer, for example, is often identified by the woman herself when touching and observing her body.
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What are the main treatments for cancer?
Treatment for cancer varies according to the type and stage of the disease. Only a doctor will be able to identify the best treatment in each situation. The most common treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Surgery: tumor removal;
- Chemotherapy: administering drugs that attack cells, inhibiting or controlling the growth of cancer cells;
- Radiotherapy: destruction of cancer cells by the use of radiation.
- Bone marrow transplant: replacement of diseased bone marrow with cells from a healthy bone marrow. This treatment is done when the patient has diseases that affect the blood cells, such as leukemia.
We must also mention the so-called palliative care. This care is usually done when there is no longer a chance of cure, being essential for the patient to have a better quality of life, without pain, for example.
How can I prevent cancer?
There is no magic formula to prevent cancer, however, adopting some healthy habits throughout life can help prevent the disease. Here are some valuable tips:
- adopt one healthy eating, avoiding, for example, processed foods.
- Do not use cigarettes and alcoholic beverages.
- practice physical activities.
- Use sunblock.
- Get vaccinated. Vaccination against HPV, for example, is a way to prevent cervical cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine also prevents cancer, as liver cancer is linked to the virus that causes hepatitis B.
- If you work with agents that can cause cancer, such as radiation and some chemicals, always follow all safety rules.
