Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Cancer
This article provides a detailed overview of cancer, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early detection. It emphasizes understanding the disease to promote awareness and timely intervention.
Cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably within the body. These malignant cells, also called tumor or cancer cells, can form tumors and invade surrounding tissues. They pose a threat to the immune system and may cause severe health complications, potentially leading to death. Cancer is a broad term describing diseases caused by irregular and excessive cell division. As of January 2016, around 15.5 million individuals worldwide were affected by various types of cancer. Some cancers proliferate rapidly, forming visible tumors, while others like leukemia do not cause palpable growths. Common symptoms include fatigue, unexplained weight changes, skin discoloration, persistent cough, breathing difficulties, and unusual bleeding. If symptoms persist, consulting a doctor is vital. Even without symptoms, regular screenings can aid early detection. Cancer results from genetic mutations in cells, which can be inherited or caused by factors such as smoking, viral infections, obesity, hormonal imbalances, inflammation, inactivity, and radiation. Risk factors include age—most cases are diagnosed in individuals over 65—lifestyle choices like smoking and lack of exercise, and genetic predisposition. Awareness and early diagnosis are key to effective treatment and management.
