Overview

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. If the spread is not controlled, it can result in death. Cancer can develop in almost any part of the body and often forms a mass called a tumor, though some cancers, like leukemia, do not form solid tumors. The progression of cancer varies greatly depending on the type, location, and stage of the disease.

Causes

• Breast Cancer: Originates in the cells of the breast, commonly in the ducts or lobules.
• Lung Cancer: Begins in the lungs, often associated with smoking and exposure to carcinogens.
• Prostate Cancer: Develops in the prostate gland, common in older men.
• Colorectal Cancer: Affects the colon or rectum, usually starts as polyps.
• Skin Cancer: Includes melanoma and non-melanoma types like basal cell carcinoma.
• Leukemia: A cancer of the blood or bone marrow, leading to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells.
• Lymphoma: Affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system.
• Pancreatic Cancer: Starts in the pancreas, often with poor prognosis due to late diagnosis.
• Ovarian Cancer: Begins in the ovaries and is often detected late, leading to a higher mortality rate.
• Bladder Cancer: Develops in the bladder's lining, commonly associated with smoking.

Causes

Cancer can be caused by a variety of factors, both genetic and environmental. Genetic mutations, whether inherited or acquired, play a critical role in cancer development. Environmental factors like tobacco use, exposure to harmful chemicals, radiation, and certain infections (e.g., HPV leading to cervical cancer) significantly increase the risk. Lifestyle factors, including poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption, also contribute to cancer risk. Some cancers are linked to chronic inflammation or hormonal imbalances, and age is a major risk factor for most types.

Treatments for Cancer

Treatment for cancer depends on the type, location, and stage of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include surgery, which aims to remove the tumor; chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells; and radiation therapy, which uses high-energy particles or waves to destroy cancer cells. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are newer approaches that specifically target cancer cells or boost the body's immune system to fight the disease. Hormone therapy and stem cell transplants may be used in certain cancers. Often, a combination of these treatments is employed to achieve the best outcome.