Cancer: answers to common questions

Cancer: answers to common questions

What is cancer?

Cancer is not a single disease, but a group of more than 100 different diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and the spread of abnormal cells. Normally, the cells of the body grow, share and die in an orderly way. When this process is disturbed, damaged or abnormal cells survive and multiply, forming a tumor. Tumors can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Benign tumors usually grow slowly and do not spread to other parts of the body. Malignant tumors can invade nearby tissues and organs, as well as spread to distant areas of the body through the circulatory and lymphatic systems (metastasis).

At the cellular level, cancer occurs due to damage or mutations in DNA, the genetic material of the cell. These mutations can be inherited from parents, arise as a result of exposure to carcinogens (substances that cause cancer) or occur spontaneously during cellular division. Not all mutations lead to cancer, but the accumulation of many mutations can make a cell out of the control of normal growth regulation mechanisms.

What are the risk factors for cancer?

The risk of cancer is determined by the complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Some risk factors, such as age and genetics, cannot be changed. Other factors, such as the lifestyle and the effect of carcinogens, can be modified to reduce the risk of cancer. The main risk factors include:

Age: The risk of developing most types of cancer increases with age. This is due to the accumulation of genetic mutations over time and a decrease in the effectiveness of the immune system.
Genetics: Some types of cancer have a strong genetic predisposition. The presence of certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 (associated with breast and ovarian cancer), significantly increases the risk of these diseases. Family history of cancer can indicate increased risk.
Smoking: Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer, and is also associated with an increased risk of developing oral cancer, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidneys, pancreas, cervix and stomach. Both active and passive smoking are harmful.
Diet: A diet rich in processed products, red meat, fats and sugar can increase the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as cancer of the colon, breast and prostate. Insufficient consumption of fruits, vegetables and fiber can also increase risk.
Obesity: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast cancer (after menopause), colon, endometrium (uterus), kidneys, esophagus and pancreas. Obesity causes chronic inflammation and hormonal changes that can contribute to cancer.
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol use increases the risk of developing cancer of the oral cavity, throat, esophagus, liver, breast and colon. The risk increases with an increase in the amount of alcohol consumed.
The effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation: The effect of UV radiation from the Sun or Solarium is the main risk factor for the development of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell cancer and flat cell cancer.
Infections: Some viral and bacterial infections are associated with an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer. For example, the human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with cervical cancer, and the hepatitis B and C virus is associated with liver cancer. Helicobacter pylori is associated with stomach cancer.
The effect of chemicals: The impact of certain chemicals in the workplace or in the environment can increase the risk of cancer. Examples include asbestos (associated with mesothelioma), benzene (associated with leukemia) and radon (associated with lung cancer).
Radiation: The impact of ionizing radiation, for example, from x -rays, computed tomography or radiation therapy, can increase the risk of cancer.
Immunosuppression: People with a weakened immune system, for example, due to HIV infection or taking immunosuppressants after organs transplantation, have an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Inflammation: Chronic inflammation associated with states such as inflammatory intestinal diseases can increase the risk of developing colon cancer.

What are the types of cancer?

There are many different types of cancer, which are classified depending on the type of cells from which they arise, and the places of their occurrence in the body. Some of the most common types of cancer include:

Lung cancer: It begins in the lungs and is usually associated with smoking.
Breast cancer: It begins in breast cells and is the most common type of cancer in women.
Colon and rectum cancer (colorectal cancer): It begins in the colon or rectum and often develops from polyps.
Prostate cancer: It begins in the prostate gland and is the most common type of cancer in men.
Skin cancer: Includes melanoma, basal cell cancer and flat cell cancer.
Leukemia: Blood cancer affecting blood cells in the bone marrow.
Lymphoma: Cancer of the lymphatic system.
Endometry cancer (uterus): It begins in the mucous membrane of the uterus.
Pancreatic cancer: It begins in the pancreas.
Ovary cancer: It begins in the ovaries.
Stomach cancer: It begins in the stomach.
Cancer Baked: It begins in the liver.
Kidney cancer: It begins in the kidneys.
Bladder cancer: It begins in the bladder.
Thyroid cancer: It begins in the thyroid gland.
Brain cancer: It begins in the brain.
Melanoma: The most dangerous form of skin cancer developing from melanocytes (cells producing pigment).

What are the symptoms of cancer?

Symptoms of cancer can vary greatly depending on the type of cancer, its localization and stages. Some types of cancer may not cause any symptoms in the early stages, while others can cause obvious symptoms. It is important to note that many symptoms of cancer can also be caused by other, less serious conditions. However, if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, especially if they are constant or inexplicable, you must consult a doctor:

Fatigue: Extreme fatigue that does not pass after rest.
Inexplicable weight loss or weight gain: Loss or weight gain without any changes in a diet or physical activity.
Changes in the skin: New moles or changes in existing moles, non -healing ulcers, a change in skin color.
Thickening or seal under the skin: The feeling of seal or thickenings under the skin in the mammary gland, testicles or any other part of the body.
Changes in the work of the intestines or bladder: Constant changes in the habits of the intestines or bladder, such as constipation, diarrhea, blood in a chair or urine, frequent urination or pain during urination.
Permanent cough or hoarseness: A cough that does not pass within a few weeks, or hoarse voice.
Difficult swallowing: Difficult or painful swallowing.
Non -healing wounds: Wounds that do not heal for several weeks.
Inexplicable pain: Constant pain that does not pass after taking painkillers.
Blood in sputum: Blood with coughing.
Inexplicable bleeding or bruises: Bleeding from the nose, gums, vagina or rectum for no apparent reason or the formation of bruises without injury.
Fever or night sweating: Inexplicable fever or night sweating.
Changes in vision or hearing: Loveturned vision, double in the eyes, hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
Headaches: Constant headaches, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting or neurological changes.
Swollen lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes under the armpits, in the groin, on the neck or above the collarbone.

How is cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis of cancer usually includes a combination of medical examination, medical history, visualizing studies and biopsy.

Medical examination and medical history: The doctor will ask questions about your medical history, risk factors and symptoms. He will also conduct a medical examination to check the presence of signs of cancer.
Visualizing research: Visualizing studies are used to obtain images of internal organs and tissues. These images can help the doctor find a tumor and determine their size and location. Widespread visualizing research include:
- X-rays: Uses electromagnetic radiation to create images of bones and other structures.
- Computed tomography (CT): He uses x -rays to create detailed images of the cross -sectional section of the body.
- Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of soft fabrics.
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of internal organs.
- Positron emission tomography (PET): Uses a radioactive substance to identify areas of increased metabolic activity, which may indicate cancer.
Biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of fabric from a suspicious area is removed for research under a microscope. The biopsy is the only way to finally confirm the diagnosis of cancer. There are various types of biopsy, including:
- Insulinating Biopsy: A small piece of fabric is removed.
- Excisio biopsy: The whole suspicious area is removed.
- I needle biopsy: A needle is used to take a sample of fabric.
- Bone marrow puncture biopsy: A sample of bone marrow for research is taken.
Other tests: Depending on the suspect type of cancer, other tests can be carried out, such as blood test, urine analysis, endoscopy (using a thin tube with a camera to view internal organs) and genetic testing. Blood tests can help identify certain proteins or other substances that may indicate the presence of cancer. Genetic testing can help determine if you have a hereditary predisposition to certain types of cancer.

What is cancer stadium?

Cancer stadium is the process of determining the degree of cancer. The stage of cancer is important for planning treatment and predicting the outcome of the disease. There are several different cancer stadium systems, but the most common is the TNM system, which takes into account:

T (Tumor): The size and degree of distribution of the primary tumor.
N (Nodes): The spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes.
M (Metastasis): The spread of cancer into distant parts of the body (metastasis).

Based on the information obtained in the TNM system, cancer is classified according to the stages from 0 to IV. Stage 0 means that the cancer is at an early stage and has not spread. Stage IV means that the cancer has spread to remote parts of the body and is at an advanced stage.

What methods of cancer treatment exist?

Treatment of cancer depends on the type of cancer, its stage, the general state of health of the patient and his preferences. The common methods of cancer treatment include:

Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor. Surgery can be used to remove a tumor that is localized in one area of the body. In some cases, surgery can be used to remove most of the tumor, and then other treatment methods such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy are used to destroy the remaining cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: The use of high -energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used to treat cancer, which is localized in one area of the body, or for the treatment of cancer, which has spread to other parts of the body. Radiation therapy can be external when the radiation is directed to the tumor from the outside of the body, or internal, when the radioactive substance is placed inside the body next to the tumor.
Chemotherapy: Using drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often used to treat cancer, which has spread to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously or by injection.
Target therapy: The use of drugs that are aimed at certain molecules or paths involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapy is often less toxic than chemotherapy, since it is aimed only at cancer cells, and not at all rapidly dividing cells in the body.
Immunotherapy: The use of drugs that help the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy can be used to treat various types of cancer and can be especially effective for the treatment of cancer, which has spread to other parts of the body.
Hormonal therapy: The use of drugs for blocking or changing the action of hormones that contribute to the growth of cancer cells. Hormone therapy is used to treat breast cancer, prostate cancer and other types of cancer that are sensitive to hormones.
Bone marrow transplantation (or stem cells): Replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy bone marrow. Bone marrow transplantation is used to treat leukemia, lymphoma and other types of blood cancer.
Other treatment methods: Other methods of cancer treatment may include cryotherapy (freezing of cancer cells), radio frequency ablation (the use of heat to destroy cancer cells), photodynamic therapy (the use of light and drugs for the destruction of cancer cells) and gene therapy (change in cancer cells).

How to cope with the side effects of cancer treatment?

Cancer treatment can cause various side effects that can affect the physical, emotional and mental well -being of the patient. Side effects can vary depending on the type of treatment, dose and individual factors. The common side effects of cancer treatment include:

Fatigue: Extreme fatigue that does not pass after rest.
Nausea and vomiting: Feeling of nausea and vomiting.
Hair loss: Hair loss.
Pain: The pain can be caused by cancer, cancer treatment or both factors.
Changes in appetite: Loss of appetite or change in taste.
Diarrhea or constipation: Changes in the work of the intestine.
Skin problems: Dry skin, itching, rash or peeling.
Mucosite: Inflammation and ulcers of the mucous membrane of the mouth, throat and esophagus.
Blood problems: Low level of leukocytes (increased risk of infection), low platelet levels (increased risk of bleeding) and low red blood cells (anemia).
Neuropathy: Nerves damage, which can cause numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the arms and legs.
Lymphadema: Swelling of the arms or legs caused by the blockage of the lymph vessels.
Problems with memory and concentration: Difficulties with remembering things or concentration.
Emotional problems: Depression, anxiety, fear or anger.

There are many ways to cope with the side effects of cancer treatment. It is important to talk with your doctor about any side effects that you experience. The doctor may prescribe medications or other treatment methods that will help alleviate your symptoms. It is also important to take care of yourself well, getting enough rest, eating correctly and doing physical exercises, if possible. Support from family, friends and support groups can also be very useful.

How to prevent cancer?

Although it is impossible to completely prevent cancer, there are many things that can be done to reduce the risk of developing this disease. These include:

No smoking: Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer and is associated with an increased risk of developing many other types of cancer.
Healthy diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit the consumption of processed products, red meat, fats and sugar.
Maintain healthy weight: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing several types of cancer.
Regularly engage in physical exercises: Physical exercises can help reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as colon cancer, breast and endometrium.
Limit alcohol use: Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing several types of cancer.
Protect your skin from the sun: The effect of UV radiation from the Sun or Solariums is the main risk factor for the development of skin cancer. Use a high SPF sunscreen, wear protective clothes and avoid staying in the sun in the hottest hours of the day.
Vaccinated: Vaccines are available for protection against some viruses that can cause cancer such as HPV (cervical cancer) and hepatitis B (liver cancer).
Conduct your examinations regularly: Regular examinations and screening can help identify cancer at an early stage when it is easier to treat. The common screening tests include mammography (breast cancer), colonoscopy (colon cancer) and papa test (cervical cancer).
Avoid exposure to carcinogens: Try to avoid the effects of famous carcinogens, such as asbestos, benzene and radon.
Self -investigation: Regularly inspect your skin for changes, check the chest for seals and pay attention to any other unusual signs or symptoms.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of cancer. Find the ways to cope with stress, such as yoga, meditation or conducting time in nature.

How to get support if you have cancer?

The diagnosis of cancer can be very difficult, both for the patient and his loved ones. It is important to receive support from family, friends, medical workers and support groups. There are various resources that can help you cope with emotional, physical and practical problems associated with cancer. These include:

Family and friends: Contact your loved ones for support and understanding. Do not be afraid to ask for help.
Medical workers: Your doctor, nurse and other medical workers can provide you with information about your cancer, your treatment and ways to cope with side effects.
Support groups: Support groups provide an opportunity to chat with other people who experience the same thing. You can share your feelings, get advice and find support.
Consultants and therapists: A consultant or a therapist can help you cope with the emotional problems associated with cancer, such as depression, anxiety and fear.
Online resources: There are many online resources that provide cancer information, treatment and support tips.
Financial help: Look for programs and organizations providing financial assistance to cancer patients. Cancer treatment can be very expensive.

Remember that you are not alone. There are many resources that can help you survive this difficult period. Do not be afraid to seek help when you need it.

How to care for cancer patients?

Care for patients with cancer can be complicated and demanding, but also very useful. It is important to provide the patient with physical, emotional and practical support. Here are some tips for caring for patients with cancer:

Learn: Find out as much as possible about the type of cancer in your loved one, its treatment and possible side effects. This will help you better understand what he is worried about and how best to help him.
Offer emotional support: Listen to your loved one when he needs to speak out and offer him comfort and support. Be patient and understanding.
Help with practical tasks: Offer help with cooking, cleaning, child care and other practical tasks.
Help with treatment: Bring your loved one to the doctor’s tricks, help him take medications and follow his side effects.
Encourage a healthy lifestyle: Encourage your loved one to eat properly, engage in physical exercises (if possible) and get enough rest.
Take a look after yourself: Care for patients with cancer can be tedious. It is important to take care of yourself so as not to burn out. Select the time for relaxation, classes that you like, and communicating with friends and family.
Seek for help: Do not be afraid to seek help from other family members, friends, support groups or professional nurses.

Prospects and research in the field of cancer treatment:

Prospects for cancer patients have improved significantly over the past few decades due to achievements in the field of prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Studies aimed at developing new and more effective methods of cancer treatment, as well as improving the quality of life of patients. Some of the most promising areas of research include:

Target therapy: The development of drugs that are aimed at certain molecules or paths involved in the growth and distribution of cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: The development of drugs that help the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Gene therapy: Development of treatment methods that change cancer cells to stop their growth and distribution.
Nanotechnology: The use of nanoparticles for the delivery of drugs directly to cancer cells.
Personalized medicine: Adaptation of cancer treatment to the individual characteristics of each patient, such as its genetic profile and type of cancer.
Early detection: Development of new methods for identifying cancer at an early stage, when it is easier to treat.
Prevention: Development of more effective ways to prevent cancer.

These studies give hope that in the future cancer will become a cured disease.

What is palliative help?

Palliative assistance is specialized medical care for people with serious diseases, such as cancer. It is aimed at facilitating pain, stress and other symptoms of the disease, as well as to improve the quality of life of both the patient and his family. Palliative assistance can be provided at any stage of the disease, even during treatment aimed at curing.

Palliative assistance is provided by a team of specialists, including doctors, nurses, social workers and other specialists. The team works together to develop an individual care plan that meets the needs of the patient and his family.

Palliative help may include:

Relief of pain and other symptoms: Medicines, therapy and other treatment methods can be used to relieve pain, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath and other symptoms.
Emotional and spiritual support: Consultations and support can help the patient and his family cope with emotional and spiritual problems associated with the disease.
Social support: Social workers can help the patient and his family gain access to the necessary resources and services, such as financial assistance, transport and home care.
Assistance in decision -making: A palliative care team can help the patient and his family make informed decisions on treatment and care.
Care at the end of life: Palliative help can be continued at the end of life to provide the patient with comfort and dignity.

Palliative help is not the same as the hospice. A hospice is a form of palliative care, which turns out to be people with terminal diseases, when treatment aimed at cure is no longer an option.

The role of a healthy lifestyle after cancer treatment:

After the treatment of cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for restoration, reducing the risk of relapse and improving general quality of life. This includes:

Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Limit the consumption of processed products, red meat, sugar and unhealthy fats. Consultation with a nutritionist specializing in oncology can help develop an individual nutrition plan, taking into account your specific needs and side effects of treatment.
Physical activity: Regular physical exercises, if possible, can help improve physical function, reduce fatigue, strengthen the immune system and improve mood. Consult your doctor to determine the appropriate level of physical activity and type of exercise, given your health status and treatment.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for reducing the risk of cancer relapse and other chronic diseases. If you have overweight or obesity, try to gradually reduce weight with a healthy diet and physical exercises.
Refusal of smoking: Smoking is harmful to health, especially after cancer treatment. If you smoke, quit smoking as soon as possible. Seek your doctor or other resources for help to get support in the refusal of smoking.
Alcohol use restriction: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of developing several types of cancer. If you drink alcohol, do it moderately.
Stress management: Stress can weaken the immune system and negatively affect the general state of health. Find the ways to cope with stress, such as yoga, meditation, spending time in nature or communication with friends and family.
Regular medical examinations: Continue to regularly visit your doctor for medical examinations and screening to identify any signs of relapse or other health problems.
Support: Communicate with support groups, consultants or therapists to get emotional support and cope with any psychological problems that may occur after cancer treatment.

Taking these measures to maintain a healthy lifestyle can help improve your well -being, reduce the risk of cancer relapse and live a full life after treatment.

The importance of participating in clinical research:

Clinical studies are research studies in which people are involved in evaluating new methods of treatment, prevention or diagnosis of cancer. Participation in a clinical study can provide you with access to advanced treatment methods that are not yet available to the general public, and contribute to the development of knowledge about cancer.

Clinical studies are carried out under strict observation and control in order to ensure the safety of participants. Before deciding on participation in a clinical study, it is important to carefully familiarize yourself with information about the study, discuss it with your doctor and ask any questions that you may have.

Participation in a clinical study can be useful not only for you, but also for future patients with cancer. Your data can help scientists develop more effective methods of treating and preventing cancer.

Alternative and complementary methods of cancer treatment:

Alternative methods of cancer treatment are treatment methods that are used instead of standard medical treatment of cancer. Complete methods of cancer treatment are treatment methods that are used along with standard medical treatment of cancer.

It is important to note that many alternative methods of cancer treatment have not been scientifically proven as effective and can even be harmful. Always talk with your doctor before using any alternative or complementary methods of cancer treatment.

Some complementary methods of cancer treatment, such as acupuncture, massage and yoga, can help facilitate the side effects of cancer treatment, such as pain, nausea and fatigue. However, it is important to remember that these treatment methods do not cure cancer and should not be used instead of standard medical treatment.

How to talk with children about cancer:

A conversation with children about cancer can be complex and emotionally difficult. It is important to be honest and open, but at the same time take into account the age and level of understanding of the child. Here are some tips:

Select the right time and place: Choose a calm and comfortable place where the child can focus on the conversation.
Be honest and open: Explain what cancer is simple and understandable words. Do not hide the truth, but do not scare the child with excessive details.
Consider the age of the child: Small children need simpler explanations than adolescents.
Give your child the opportunity to ask questions: Encourage the child to ask questions and answer them honestly and patiently.
Show your emotions: Do not be afraid to show your emotions. This will help the child understand that he can also express his feelings.
Generate the child that he is not to blame: Explain to the child that cancer is not a anyone’s guilt.
Emphasize that doctors are doing everything possible to help: Convince the child that doctors are doing everything possible to help the patient recover.
Invite your child ways to help: Give your child the opportunity to contribute to patients to patients, for example, draw a drawing, write a letter or just spend time together.
Seek professional help: If it is difficult for you to talk to your child about cancer, seek help from a consultant or therapist.

Cancer and pregnancy:

Cancer is rare during pregnancy, but this is a serious problem that requires a special approach to treatment. Diagnosis and treatment of cancer during pregnancy can be complex, since it is necessary to take into account the health of both the mother and the child.

Treatment of cancer during pregnancy depends on the type of cancer, its stage, gestational age and the general state of the mother’s health. Some methods of cancer treatment, such as surgery, can be safe during pregnancy, while others, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, may be a risk for the child.

The decision to treat cancer during pregnancy should be made jointly by a doctor, an oncologist, an obstetrician-gynecologist and a patient, given all the risks and advantages. In some cases, it may be necessary to postpone treatment before childbirth or consider the possibility of termination of pregnancy.

After childbirth, a woman needs to undergo a complete examination and continue treatment of cancer, if necessary.

Legal and financial issues related to cancer:

The diagnosis of cancer can lead to numerous legal and financial issues. It is important to be prepared and know your rights. Here are some questions that should be taken into account:

Insurance: Make sure you have adequate medical insurance that covers the costs of cancer treatment.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply