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A Doctor Taking Patient’s Blood Pressure. Photo by Thirdman-

Top 10 Things You Should Know About Cancer. 

Cancer is a disease affecting many people worldwide regardless of background, age or age. With a good understanding of cancer, it is easy to prevent or know the treatment to undertake for a cure, even though the treatments could be expensive to the patients and their families. In recent years, people have gotten a better understanding of the disease through online information from hospitals and World Health Organization (WHO).

Researchers are still working tirelessly to ensure a better understanding of the disease. There has been ongoing clinical trial exploring new ways of detecting, preventing and treating cancer. In this article, we will explore the top 10 things you should know about cancer to understand the disease better.

1. Cancer is Caused by DNA Change

Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth caused by DNA change with the potential to spread to other body parts. When the DNA cells are damaged, they start to grow uncontrollably. External factors, including radiation or excessive alcohol, can cause changes in DNA.

2. There Are More Than 200 Types and Sub-Types of Cancers

Photo by padrinan-

There are many types of cancer, the most common ones being cervical cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia and colorectal cancer. Cancer can grow in any part of the body, and that is why there are over 200 types and sub-types of cancers.

However, there are general cancer symptoms, including fatigue, heavy night sweats or fever, unusual lump, unexplained pain or ache, unexplained bleeding, coughing, difficulty swallowing and more. Each type of cancer has unique symptoms and specific treatment.

3. Early Detection of Cancer is Important for the Treatment

Several cancers can be identified early, helping to improve the chances of successful treatment. Regular screening for people concerned with regards to cancer or who are at risk helps in taking action for early treatment. The treatment will be at a lower cost with fewer side effects for the patient. Additionally, patients whose cancer was detected early possess a higher chance of being cured, increased quality of life, complete recovery and longevity.

4. Some Types of Cancer Can be Prevented

Did you know a third of all cancers can be prevented? You can prevent cancer by improving your lifestyle by avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol intake, regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight. Also, reducing exposure to other Carcinogens such as radiation and environmental exposure will help prevent further cancer.

Certain cancers, such as liver and cervical cancer, can also be prevented through vaccination against the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

Also read 10 Facts About Smoking

5. Cancer Treatment is Expensive

Doctor Looking at CT Scan Result of a patient. Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko-

Cancer can be expensive to treat, leaving many people struggling with the cost of treatment and care. Although some people have insurance plans, they may not be adequate to cover all the expenses leaving the patient with huge medical bills. The substantial medical bills have left many families bankrupt and struggling to cater for their patient’s care. Over the years, many organizations and charities have offered financial assistance to cancer patients who cannot afford it.

6. Cancer is a Leading Cause of death 

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. In 2020 there were 10 million deaths by cancer, and around one-third of deaths from cancer are due to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity and low fruit and vegetable. All these cancer-related deaths can be prevented through regular screening for early detection and treatment. The implementation of appropriate resources for the treatment of cancer could save millions of lives.

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7. There are Many Treatment Options for Cancer

A Woman Lying in Bed while Undergoing Chemotherapy. Photo by Ivan Samkov-

Each type of cancer has unique causes, symptoms and treatment. Therefore, there are many treatment options for cancer depending on the type and stage of advancement. These options include:

• Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells or reduce a tumour.
• Chemotherapy uses chemicals to interfere with how cells divide, damaging DNA so that cancer cells will destroy themselves. Chemotherapy is suitable for the treatment of lymphoma and leukemia.
• Surgery removes entire cancer, which may completely cure the disease.
• Hormone therapy changes hormone production in the body so that cancer cells ultimately stop growing or being killed.
• Immunotherapy uses own body immune system to fight the cancer tumor and treats the whole body by giving an agent that can shrink tumor.
• Gene therapy replaces damaged genes with ones that to fight the root cause of cancer. it also focuses on further damaging cancer cell DNA to the point where the cells destroy themselves.

8. Cancer Treatment Causes Side Effects

Cancer treatment causes side effects, including hair loss, appetite loss, fatigue, constipation and pain. The side effects of cancer differ depending on the type of treatment and the individual. After treatment, patients should work closely with healthcare providers to manage the side effects. 

These side effects are challenging experiences for the patient and their families. Most patients need emotional support to cope. It’s always suitable for the patient to join support groups and start counselling to get more support to help recover.

9. Cancer Survivors Need Regular Monitoring

A Doctor Wearing Gloves to treat a patient. Photo by Thirdman-

Regular monitoring is essential for cancer survivors to detect any new or recurring cancer. This is made possible by regular follow-ups with healthcare providers to ensure you receive appropriate treatment and to ensure you remain healthy.

10. Anyone Can Get Cancer

Many people think cancer is for the rich, but there are many cancer cases worldwide in low and middle-income families, meaning anyone can get cancer. Additionally, it can affect any age bracket, including children but is most common in older adults. Some cancers, such as lymphoma, brain tumor and leukemia, are more common in children and younger adults.

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