Oncology
Cancers: A Guide for the Common Man
Introduction
Cancers are a group of conditions where abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and can invade nearby tissues. It can occur in various parts of the body, often leading to serious health issues. In this article, we aim to provide information on the causes of cancers, some types of cancers, and available treatments.
What are Cancers?
Cancers are tumors that develop as a result of abnormal and uncontrollable cell division and can spread into surrounding tissue in advanced stages. It is primarily caused by alterations in one’s DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Individual’s cancer types differ depending on their exposure to carcinogens, genetic mutations, family history, or specific lifestyle variables.
Types of Cancers
Breast cancer
Uncontrolled cell growth in breast tissue, affecting both women and, less commonly, men.
Lung cancer
Abnormal cell growth in the lungs, primarily caused by smoking and exposure to toxins.
Prostate cancer
Cancer in the prostate, a male gland, often develops slowly with age.
Colorectal cancer
Growth of malignant cells in the colon or rectum, influenced by diet and genetics.
Blood cancers
A group of cancers affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system, including leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
Common Symptoms of Cancer
Fatigue
Persistent, extreme tiredness unrelated to activity, often a sign of advanced cancer.
Unexplained Weight Loss
A noticeable drop in weight without a clear reason may indicate underlying cancer.
Pain
Ongoing, unexplained pain, which may vary in intensity and is common in advanced stages.
Skin Changes
New or changing moles, skin discoloration, or jaundice can be warning signs.
Persistent Cough
A long-lasting cough or changes in a chronic cough, possibly indicating lung or throat cancer.
Changes in Bowel Habits
Persistent constipation or diarrhea, blood in stool, may suggest colorectal cancer.
Hoarseness
A persistent change in voice may signal throat or laryngeal cancer.
Lumps or Masses
Painful or painless lumps under the skin, often in the breast or testicles.
Difficulty Urinating
Frequent urination, pain, or blood in urine could indicate prostate or bladder cancer.
Changes in Breast Appearance
Nipple discharge, dimpling, or skin changes can be early signs of breast cancer.
Headaches
Frequent, severe headaches, especially in the morning, can be related to brain tumours.
Vision Changes
Blurred or double vision, or sudden vision loss, may be associated with eye or brain cancers.
Swelling
Swelling in the neck, face, or elsewhere may suggest lymphoma or other cancers involving lymph nodes.
Causes of Cancer
Genetics
Inherited mutations can increase the risk of cancer, passed down from one’s ancestors.
Tobacco
Smoking and tobacco use expose the body to carcinogens, leading to lung and other cancers.
Diet
Poor dietary choices, high in processed foods, can contribute to obesity and cancer risk.
Infections
Viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B increase the risk of cervical and liver cancers.
Radiation
Prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation, like X-rays, can damage DNA and cause cancer.
Chemical Exposure
Working with carcinogenic substances without proper protection can lead to occupational cancers.
Hormone
imbalances, such as in breast cancer, can promote abnormal cell growth.
Obesity
Excess body fat can cause inflammation and hormonal changes that encourage cancer development.
Physical Inactivity
A sedentary lifestyle is associated with higher cancer risk, often due to weight gain.
Age
As people grow older, their risk of developing cancer naturally increases due to cumulative genetic changes.
Chronic Inflammation
Conditions like Crohn’s disease can lead to chronic inflammation, increasing cancer risk.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to pollutants and toxins in the environment can contribute to various cancers.
Surgery
Surgical removal of cancerous tumours or affected tissues is often performed, aiming to eliminate or reduce the tumour burden.
Radiation therapy
High-energy radiation is used to target and destroy cancer cells, either internally (brachytherapy) or externally (external beam radiation).
Chemotherapy
The use of anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth, often administered orally or through intravenous infusion.
Immunotherapy
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ITI’s), cancer vaccines, and adoptive cell therapies are used to stimulate the immune system to recognize and target cancer cells.
Targeted therapy
Drugs designed to specifically target cancer cells with specific genetic or molecular characteristics, blocking the signaling pathways that promote cancer growth and progression.
Hormonal therapy
It is used to treat hormone-dependent cancers and works by blocking or reducing the activity of hormones that are involved in the growth of cancer cells.
Palliative Care offered by SGP’s PRISM is an essential part of cancer care and aims to enhance the quality of life of people living with cancer
Symptom Management
Alleviating pain, nausea, and fatigue through medication, physical interventions, and psychological support.
Emotional Support
Counselling, therapy, and support groups help individuals and families cope with cancer’s impact.
End-of-Life Care
Compassionate support for pain management, emotional needs, and advanced care planning in terminal stages.
Supportive Care
Palliative teams ensure holistic well-being by collaborating with healthcare providers for physical, emotional, and social support.
