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Be Aware To Combat Cancer

Cancer is a disease that is characterized by the rapid proliferation of abnormal cells that can occur in any part of the body. Today, cancer is amongst the leading causes of mortality in the world across all ages. In order to combat cancer, we first need to be aware of the disease. This article aims to create complete awareness by giving an overview including causes, symptoms, and preventive measures in detail.

What is cancer?

A normal human cell divides and multiplies as a normal life process; however, in cancer, some of these cells (clinically known as malignant cells) undergo rapid multiplication and form a cluster of cells called a neoplasm. Our entire body is made up of cells and every organ inside the body is a collection of these small units collectively forming a tissue. A cancerous process can start in any type of cells thus a neoplasm or cancer can occur in any part of the body such as skin, lungs, eyes, brain, bones, blood, etc.

What causes cancer?

Years of research work have still been unable to determine the exact cause of cancer; however, several causes that could trigger the development of cancerous cells have been discovered and they are as follows:

  • Carcinogens: Carcinogens are substances that have the potential to turn a normal body cell into a cancerous one. These carcinogens are found in cigarettes, certain food dyes, food products, chemicals, and products. Prolonged use of carcinogenic substances ultimately leads to cancer.
  • Radiations: Radiation waves emitted from gadgets and radiation plants lead to cancer. UV radiation emitted from the sun causes skin cancers; hence, it is important to wear a good SPF-containing sunscreen when out in the sun.
  • Hereditary: Certain cancers can be acquired through genes. The incidence of cancers is highest in those individuals who have a family history of cancer in a first-degree relative. Breast, prostate, and colon cancers are types of inherited cancers.

What are the most common cancer symptoms?

Cancer is a silent killer and does not reveal any sign until the disease has drastically progressed. Abnormal weight loss, anemia, loss of appetite, abnormal bleeding, regular low-grade fevers, abnormal swelling or growth in any part of the body, loss of appetite, frequent illness, and malaise can be linked with the development of cancer; consulting a doctor and diagnosing the cause of such symptoms at the earliest is highly recommended. Skin cancers are easiest to detect as the changes are visible to the eyes; any change in the size or shape of the mole, bleeding, or ulceration at the site of a mole could be a sign of malignancy and one needs to get it checked with the doctor without any delay.

How can cancer be prevented?

Cancer may not be prevented completely but we can minimize the risk of developing it by following certain preventive measures such as staying away from products that are known to contain carcinogens, avoiding excessive radiation, and wearing sunscreen regularly.

Additionally, consume a healthy diet, especially foods rich in antioxidants such as nuts, green tea, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol intake. Be physically active.

Furthermore, making sure to undergo cancer screening tests such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and testicular examinations regularly as per the advice of cancer care specialists also helps in preventing or at least early detection of cancers. Regular checkups ensure safety and are more important for people with a family history of cancer.

Two non-specific but equally important measures include:

  • Vaccines: vaccination against certain viral diseases like Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B helps reduce the risk of cancer.
  • Safe Sex: Having limited sex partners, multiple partners expose you to higher risks of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). HIV and HPV increase your risks of developing cancer.
  • Don’t Share Needles: Sharing needles with infected patients can transmit diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C to you, which increases the risk of developing liver cancer.

Why should you choose Sierra Hematology & Oncology cancer care center?

Connect with Sierra Hematology & Oncology cancer care center as our medical oncologists focus on cancer diagnosis, recommending appropriate treatment options, timely supervision while managing complications, and regular post-treatment care.

We are specialized in treating conditions including leukemia, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, urological cancer, colorectal cancer, upper gastrointestinal cancer, and lung cancer.

Know cancer before it is too late. Discuss the above symptoms with your loved ones and contact your cancer care specialist immediately if you notice any of them in yourself or your loved ones and get it medically evaluated. Vigilance is the key to combating deadly diseases like cancer within time.

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