Here's what you need to know about cancer!

When we hear the word cancer, we all get a little scared, don't we? In fact, even when we hear this word, we feel fear and sadness. But it is very important to have a clear understanding of what exactly cancer is, how it develops, and what treatments are available for it. Because, awareness is the greatest strength to face something like this. So, today we will talk about this cancer simply, in a way that you can understand.

What is this cancer? To put it simply...

Simply put, cancer is a general name for a group of diseases that occur when normal cells in our body become cancer cells, divide and multiply uncontrollably, and start spreading throughout the body. Think about it, our genes are the ones that give our cells instructions – for example, things like ‘start growing now, stop growing now’. Normal healthy cells follow these instructions exactly. However, cancer cells do not pay attention to these instructions at all. They start dividing and spreading as they want. In fact, cancer is the second leading cause of death in countries like the United States. However, the good news is that the number of deaths from cancer is now lower than it was 20 years ago. Early detection and advanced, innovative treatments have now helped to cure cancer and help people with cancer live longer.

Are there many types of cancer?

Yes, there are over 100 types of cancer. Doctors classify them based on where in the body the cancer starts and what type of tissue it affects. They can be divided into three main types: 1. Solid cancers: This is the most common type of cancer . Roughly speaking, 8 to 9 out of 10 cancer patients suffer from this type of cancer. These include cancers that develop in epithelial tissue, such as those in our skin, breasts, colon, and lungs, called carcinomas. They also include cancers that develop in bone and connective tissues, called sarcomas. 2. Blood cancers: These start in our blood cells or the lymphatic system. For example, diseases such as `(Leukemia)` (Leukemia), `(Lymphoma)` (Lymphoma) and `(Multiple Myeloma)` are included under this category. 3. Mixed cancers: There are some cancers that have characteristics of both of the above types, or characteristics of two subtypes. An example is the types `(Carcinosarcoma)` and `(Adenosquamous carcinoma)`.

How common is cancer?

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Researchers estimate that by 2024, more than 2 million people in the United States alone will be newly diagnosed with cancer, and more than 611,000 people will die from the disease. That's one in four people.It is said that people are likely to develop cancer at some point in their lifetime. The most common types of cancer in the United States are:

• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Blood cancers

Anyone can get cancer. However, there are some differences between certain ethnic groups and by gender. According to the 2022 Annual Cancer Report:

• Men are slightly more likely to develop cancer than women.
• People over the age of 60 are at higher risk of developing cancer than other age groups.
• Cancer is more common among black men compared to other races.
• Cancer is more common among American Indian or Alaska Native women than women of other ethnicities.

What are the possible symptoms of cancer?

The symptoms of cancer can vary from person to person. It depends on the type of cancer you have and how far it has spread. Here are some common symptoms that you may experience:

• Constant feeling of extreme tiredness (` Fatigue` )
• Fever, especially at night
• Appetite
• Night sweats
• Persistent pain
• Skin changes , especially changes in the shape or size of birthmarks, or the appearance of new birthmarks
• Unexplained weight loss

Sometimes, symptoms specific to the organ in which the cancer is located may also occur. For example:

• Bleeding in the urine or stool
• A change in the shape, color, or size of a birthmark on the skin
• Coughing up blood
• New lumps or swellings on the body

This list is not exhaustive. Also, having these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. Cancer is a complex disease . Different types can have different symptoms. Sometimes, you may not even know you have cancer for years. Other times, symptoms may be obvious and may quickly become severe.

The best thing to do is to report any unusual changes in your body that have been going on for more than two weeks., Informing a doctor about it.

Why does this cancer occur? (Causes of Cancer)

Cancer is a genetic disorder . But that doesn't mean that all cancers are inherited. This happens when the genes that control how our cells work change. This causes abnormal cells to grow, divide, and eventually interfere with the normal functioning of our bodies. These abnormal cells can form tumors. Sometimes, these cancer cells can break away from the tumor and travel to other parts of the body through our lymphatic system or bloodstream. This is what doctors call metastasis. For example, if a tumor in your breast spreads to your lungs, you may have trouble breathing. In some types of blood cancer, our bone marrow starts to produce abnormal blood cells out of control. Over time, these abnormal cells crowd out normal, healthy blood cells. Medical researchers estimate that only 5% to 10% of all cancers are caused by inherited genetic mutations. That is, they are caused by factors that we cannot control. Most cancers are caused by acquired genetic mutations. That is, changes that occur during our lifetime. Doctors have identified several factors that increase the risk of developing cancer.

Risk factors for developing cancer

There is no single cause of cancer. However, certain things can increase the risk of developing cancer. These include:

• Family history : If a close family member (parents, siblings, grandparents) has had cancer, you are at higher risk of developing cancer too.
• Smoking : Smoking tobacco and e-cigarettes increase the risk of developing lung, esophageal, pancreatic, and oral cancer.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as asbestos, pesticides, and radon, can cause cancer over time.
• Malnutrition: High-fat, high-sugar diets increase the risk of developing various types of cancer. Also, if you don't get enough physical exercise, you are more likely to suffer from diseases.
• Hormone therapy:Women taking hormone replacement therapy may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer and uterine cancer.
• Radiation exposure: Frequent exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Excessive exposure to radiation therapy may also be a risk factor.

How do you know for sure if you have cancer? (Diagnosis)

Doctors start the process of diagnosing cancer with a complete physical examination. They ask you about your symptoms and your family medical history. In addition, they may need to do tests such as:

• Blood tests for cancer: These may include a ``Complete Blood Count (CBC)`` (complete blood count), ``blood protein tests``, and ``tumor marker tests``.
• Imaging tests: Tests such as `(CT scan)` (CT scan), `(MRI)` (MRI), `(Ultrasound)` (Ultrasound) or `(Iodine Metaiodobenzylguanidine - MIGB)`.
• Biopsies: These can be done surgically (through an incision) or nonsurgically (with a needle). This involves taking a piece of suspicious tissue and examining it under a microscope.
• Genetic testing for cancer: These tests help identify hereditary types of cancer and plan treatment for them.

How is the stage of cancer determined?

Doctors use cancer staging to plan treatment and get an idea of ​​how the disease will progress (prognosis). Most cancers have four main stages. The exact stage is determined by several factors, including the size of the tumor and its location.

• Stages I-III (1-3) (early-stage or locally advanced): These stages usually describe cases where the cancer has grown directly into surrounding tissue, or has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage IV (4) (metastatic cancer): This means that cancer cells have spread to distant parts of the body, either through your bloodstream or lymphatic system.

How is cancer treated?

Doctors may use a variety of treatments. Sometimes, they may use a combination of treatments, depending on your condition. The most common cancer treatments are:

• Surgery: Cancerous tumors that have not yet spread to other parts of the body can be removed through surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs are given either as pills or as a liquid given intravenously to destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: High doses of radiation are used to kill cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Stimulates your body's own immune system to fight the disease.
• Targeted therapy: Treatment directly targets the genetic mutations that turn healthy cells into cancer cells.
• Hormone therapy: Blocks hormones that help cancer grow. For example, people with prostate cancer may be given hormones that lower testosterone levels.
• Bone marrow transplant: Damaged blood stem cells are replaced with healthy cells.

Cancer treatment can cause several side effects. These side effects depend on the type of treatment you receive and how your body responds to it. If you experience any side effects during your cancer treatment, be sure to tell your doctor. They may be able to give you recommendations or medications that can help.

Are there ways to prevent cancer?

Not all cancers can be prevented, especially those caused by risk factors we can't control. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk:

• If you smoke or use tobacco, try to quit . Ask your doctor about smoking cessation programs.
• Follow a healthy eating plan that suits you.
• Add physical exercise to your daily routine.
• Stay away from environmental toxins like asbestos and pesticides.
• Protect yourself from sun damage (e.g., use sunglasses, hats, sunscreen).
• Get regular cancer screenings .

What is life like with cancer? (Outlook for Cancer)

You are unique, and your prognosis is unique. Your doctors will determine your outlook based on factors such as:

• Your overall health .
• The type of cancer you have.
• The stage of your cancer.
• How you respond to treatment .

Although there is no single `cure` for cancer, some cancers respond well to treatment. Many people experience a reduction in symptoms. Doctors call this reduction in symptoms, sometimes even complete disappearance, a ``remission``. ``Partial remission`` means that symptoms have decreased to some extent. ``Complete remission`` means that there are no more symptoms. Because different cancers require different treatments, outcomes vary. In general, people who are diagnosed and treated before the cancer has spread have the best outcomes . However, even if your cancer has spread beyond where it started, treatment can control its growth, relieve your symptoms, help you live longer, and improve your ``quality of life``.

What are the survival rates of people who recover from cancer?

Survival rates are estimates based on the experiences of large groups of people with different types of cancer. As with the course of the disease, survival rates vary depending on the type of cancer, its stage, and treatment.

The most important thing to remember is that these survival rates are only estimates. They don't tell you exactly how long you will live or how your body will respond to a particular treatment. Your doctor can tell you more about this.

How do I take care of myself? (Self-care)

Self-care is very important when living with cancer. It can be different for each person. Treating yourself to a little TLC (Tender Loving Care) when you need it can reduce stress and improve your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Here are some things you can do:

• Try things like art or music therapy.
• Find a support group to talk to people who have had similar experiences as you.
• Get a light massage (but ask your doctor first ).
• Meet with a nutritionist and create a meal plan that suits you.
• Practice mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation.
• Read a book you love, or watch a movie you love.
• Rest whenever you want, not just when you can.
• Set up "visiting hours" for yourself to spend time with your loved ones and protect your own time to relax.
• Talk to a therapist or counselor about the emotional impact of this illness.
• Write down what's on your mind in a journal.

Some of these things may not work for you, and that's okay. The main thing is to do things that bring you joy and satisfaction.Find ways to spend your time meaningfully.

When should I see a doctor?

Tell your doctor about any problems you have while you are undergoing cancer treatment, including side effects of treatment. In many cases, your oncologist can help you find ways to make you more comfortable. If you are not feeling well, don't hesitate to tell them.

What questions should I ask the doctor?

Knowledge is power. If you have cancer, it's important to gather as much information as you can. Here are some questions you can ask your doctor:

• What type of cancer do I have?
• Has the cancer spread to other parts of my body?
• What are my chances of recovery?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• What are the risks and benefits of my treatment?
• How long does treatment take?
• Will I be able to work during cancer treatment?
• Will cancer treatment affect my fertility?
• Will I have to stay in the hospital for my treatment?
• Would a clinical trial be a good option for me?

The words "you have cancer" are probably the most terrifying words you'll ever hear. Suddenly, everything feels uncertain. You may feel sad, lonely, frustrated, angry. You may feel all of these things at once. Or, you may feel completely devastated. Whatever you're feeling, it's okay. How will this diagnosis change me? What will my life be like now? How much time will I have with my loved ones? If these questions are running through your mind, you're not alone. From the day you were diagnosed, you've become a cancer survivor – a member of a worldwide community. You'll meet many people along the way. Seek support from them and your loved ones. Your doctors understand the seriousness of this life-changing event – ​​they're here to help you in any way you need.

Take-Home Message

Although cancer is a serious condition, awareness, early detection, and proper treatment can make a big difference.

• If you have unusual symptoms (especially if they last more than two weeks), seek medical advice.
• Avoid cancer risk factors as much as possible (no smoking, healthy diet, exercise).
• Get regular health checkups .
• Talk openly with your doctor about treatments and their side effects .
• Remember that you are not alone . Get help from family, friends, and support groups.

Remember, it is very important to face this challenge with a strong mind and a positive attitude .