Page 1: What is Cancer?
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of
abnormal cells in the body. If not treated, cancer can invade surrounding tissues and
may spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems—a process
known as metastasis.
The human body is made up of trillions of cells that grow, divide, and die in a regulated
way. Cancer occurs when this process breaks down. Cells begin to grow uncontrollably,
forming tumors—masses of tissue that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant
(cancerous). Malignant tumors can destroy nearby tissue and spread to other organs.
There are over 100 types of cancer, typically named after the organ or cell type where
they begin. Some of the most common cancers include:
• Breast cancer – common among women.
• Lung cancer – often linked to smoking.
• Prostate cancer – affects men, usually after age 50.
• Colorectal cancer – begins in the colon or rectum.
• Skin cancer – includes melanoma and non-melanoma types.
• Leukemia – cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
• Lymphoma – cancer of the lymphatic system.
Cancer can affect anyone, but risk increases with age. Early detection through
screenings (like mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears) can significantly
improve survival rates. The symptoms of cancer vary depending on the type and
location but may include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, pain, skin changes, or a
persistent lump.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. However, thanks to
advances in science and medicine, many cancers are now treatable and even curable,
especially when detected early.
Page 2: Causes and Risk Factors
Cancer doesn’t have a single cause; it’s the result of changes to the DNA within cells.
These changes, or mutations, can be inherited or caused by environmental and lifestyle
factors.
Major causes and risk factors for cancer include:
• Genetics: Some people inherit genes that increase their risk for certain cancers,
such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 for breast and ovarian cancer.
• Lifestyle choices: Smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, obesity, and lack
of physical activity are major contributors to cancer risk.
• Environmental exposure: Prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals (like
asbestos), radiation (including UV rays from the sun), and certain industrial
pollutants can cause cancer.
• Infections: Some viruses and bacteria can increase cancer risk. For example,
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to cervical cancer, Hepatitis B and C
can cause liver cancer, and Helicobacter pylori can lead to stomach cancer.
• Hormones: Hormonal imbalances or prolonged use of hormone therapy can
increase the risk of certain cancers such as breast and prostate cancer.
• Age: The risk of most cancers increases with age, largely because mutations
accumulate in our cells over time.
Although not all cancers can be prevented, many risk factors are modifiable. For
example, avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, limiting
alcohol, and protecting your skin from the sun can significantly reduce cancer risk.
Screening and vaccination also play important roles in prevention. Vaccines like the
HPV vaccine and Hepatitis B vaccine help prevent infection-related cancers.
Awareness and education are essential in promoting early diagnosis and healthy
behaviors that can reduce cancer risk across the population.
Page 3: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Impact
Diagnosing cancer usually involves a combination of medical history, physical exams,
imaging tests (like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs), lab tests (blood, urine), and biopsy—the
removal and analysis of tissue.
Once diagnosed, cancer is classified into stages (Stage 0–IV) to determine how far it has
spread. Staging helps guide treatment decisions and estimate prognosis.
Common cancer treatments include:
• Surgery: Removing cancerous tissue from the body, often used for localized
tumors.
• Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells. It can affect
healthy cells too, leading to side effects.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and fight
cancer.
• Targeted therapy: Uses drugs that specifically target cancer cell mechanisms.
• Hormone therapy: Blocks hormones that fuel certain cancers like breast and
prostate.
• Stem cell transplant: Used in blood cancers to restore damaged bone marrow.
The impact of cancer goes beyond the physical. It affects a person’s mental health,
finances, family life, and social relationships. Many cancer survivors experience long-
term side effects or emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, or fear of
recurrence.
Globally, cancer is responsible for millions of deaths each year, but survival rates are
improving due to early detection and advanced treatments. Public health campaigns,
research funding, and global initiatives like the World Cancer Day (February 4) help
raise awareness and support patients.
Ongoing research aims to develop more effective, less toxic treatments, detect
cancer earlier, and better understand how genetics and environment interact in cancer
development. Personalized medicine—where treatment is tailored to a person’s genetic
profile—is an exciting frontier in the fight against cancer.
