When it comes to treatment options, there are several methods that physicians might utilize. Some of the more common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and palliative care. Once cancer has reached the later stages of its life cycle then some patients may not undergo curative treatment. In these cases the therapy that is administered is meant to slow the growth of the cancer cells and improve the overall quality of life that the patient has as they manage the disease.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a broad term that refers to diseases associated with abnormal cell growth that typically results in tumors. When the DNA of cells within the body becomes compromised, mutations can result in rapidly dividing cells. These cells can form masses in almost every tissue of the human body and become non-cancerous, or benign tumors. Benign tumors are not life threatening, however, malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread to other systems in the body. If detected early enough many of these growths may be removed with surgery, although the vast majority of types of cancer can be fatal.

Cancerous tumors can spread cancer cells to other tissues via the blood or lymphatic systems and when this occurs it is referred to as metastasis. Metastasis is quite dangerous because it allows the cancer to invade other tissues and potentially overwhelm the body. This is one reason why it is so important to detect cancer in its earliest stages, before it can become so destructive.

Surgery

Surgery may be conducted to remove tumors and affected surrounding tissues. This option is typically utilized early on in the lifecycle of cancer. In some cases, however, surgery is used to identify the growth and verify the existence of cancer cells. This might be the case in some types of brain cancer, for example. Surgery is often coupled with other types of treatment.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy involves exposure to radioactive beams or materials that disrupt the DNA of cancer cells and shrink the size of tumors. In some cases (prostate cancer, for example) small radioactive devices are surgically implanted at or near the site of the tumor for a period of weeks.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a powerful form of treatment that uses large doses of powerful medication to prevent cancer cell growth and weaken the tumor. There are several types of chemicals that may be utilized depending on the specific type of cancer and stage that it is in.

Palliative Care

Finally, palliative care can include a number of procedures and medication regimens to help the patient manage the illness. This treatment option is typically utilized in the later stages of cancer, when the disease cannot be eliminated.

There will typically be a team of medical professionals involved in developing the treatment plan for the patient. These individuals may include oncologists, radiation therapists, general physicians, social workers, surgeons and more. Every cancer situation is unique and requires an approach that is customized to the needs of the individual.

What is Cancer? The Symptoms

The symptoms of cancer can be different depending on the organ or tissue that is experiencing the growth. For example, prostate cancer may cause difficulty with urination or sexual functions, while some types of skin cancer may not have many symptoms at all.

Generally speaking, there are a number of symptoms that may point to multiple types of cancer. It is worth noting, however, that these symptoms may also indicate much less serious conditions and that is why a thorough screening by a physician is needed. Some of these symptoms include rapid and unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, localized pain, gastrointestinal problems, and prolonged fever.

What is Cancer Prevention?

Many occurrences of cancer are preventable if the right habits are followed early enough. It is important to know the risk factors and causes of various types of cancer. For example, smoking is an avoidable behavior that increases your risk of cancer tremendously. Prolonged exposure to sunlight is another risk factor for developing various types of cancer. Contrary to popular belief, genetics are a less common cause of the disease.

Additional behaviors that can reduce your risk of developing cancer include limiting your intake of red meat, practicing safe sex, avoiding industrial chemicals and regular medical screenings.

Age is another factor to consider. Men who are older than 40 years of age should have regular screenings for prostate cancer and women older than 40 should have regular screenings for breast cancer. Keep in mind that it is never too late to reduce your risk of cancer!

There are many misconceptions about cancer and the treatment of the disease, but the more information you have, the more prepared you will be to prevent or undergo treatment for the illness. This process starts with determining exactly what is cancer and how to prevent it when you can.