People who have cancer may experience a wide range of side effects, depending on the type of cancer they have, where it has spread, and how far along it is. It has a variety of effects on people, including a negative impact on their mental health, as well as their physical and financial health. Cancer affects millions of people worldwide; in fact, the World Cancer Research Fund estimates that there were more than 18.1 million new cancer cases in the world in the year 2020.
In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of cancer centers and clinics, such as the immunotherapy clinic for cancer, as a response to the increase in the number of people diagnosed with cancer and the accompanying demand for specialized medical care and treatment. These establishments are committed to providing patients suffering from cancer with care that encompasses diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care on a multidisciplinary level.
Cancer is a disease that develops when cells in the body begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming abnormal tissue masses known as tumors. These tumors may be benign, which is non-cancerous, or malignant, which is cancerous. In the case of malignant tumors, cancerous cells can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other areas of the body through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system, which can result in significant health issues and even potentially life-threatening complications.
Cancer patients are afflicted in a variety of ways; some suffer from unexpected weight loss, fatigue, pain, changes in skin color or texture, difficulty swallowing, and unusual bleeding, among other symptoms. Although there are numerous types of cancer, this article will focus on five of the most prevalent types, their symptoms, and how to prevent them.
Lung cancer
Cancer of the lungs develops when cells in the lungs proliferate uncontrollably and form a tumor. It is typically brought on by prolonged exposure to potentially hazardous substances, such as cigarette smoke or pollution, and it is more prevalent in people who smoke.
SYMPTOMS: Coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and weight loss.
PREVENTION: Because smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, the most crucial step to reduce your risk of developing the disease is to abstain from smoking and limit your exposure to secondhand smoke. Furthermore, avoiding exposure to radon, a naturally occurring gas found in some homes and buildings, and reducing your overall exposure to air pollution are two additional ways to reduce your likelihood of developing lung cancer.
Colorectal Cancer
Colon cancer is another name for bowel cancer, which refers to cancer that forms in the colon or rectum. Typically, it takes several years for it to fully develop, and in the beginning, it appears as a small growth known as a polyp.
SYMPTOMS: Changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.
PREVENTION: The risk of developing colorectal cancer can be reduced by maintaining a healthy diet high in fiber but low in red and processed meats. A healthy diet and an active lifestyle, including regular exercise, can also be beneficial. Moreover, screening procedures such as colonoscopies, which are performed regularly, can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they progress to cancer.
Breast Cancer
This type of cancer begins in the breast cells and is the most common form of cancer in women, although it can also affect men.
SYMPTOMS: Lump in the breast or underarm area, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, or skin changes.
PREVENTION: Breast self-exams and mammograms are two of the best ways to detect breast cancer at its earliest stages when it is also the most treatable. Keeping a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding hormone therapy after menopause are other things that can be done to help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Prostate Cancer
Cancer of the prostate affects the gland known as the prostate, which is a component of the male reproductive system. It typically progresses very gradually, and in the early stages, it might not even cause any symptoms.
SYMPTOMS: difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and pain in the hips, back, or chest.
PREVENTION: There is no foolproof method for preventing prostate cancer. However, regular screening can assist in the early detection of prostate cancer, which is the stage at which it is most amenable to treatment.
Skin cancer
Cancer of the skin develops when cells in the skin grow uncontrolled and form a tumor. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation, whether from the sun or tanning beds, is the most common cause of this condition.
SYMPTOMS: Changes in the appearance of a mole or other skin lesion, such as changes in size, shape, or color.
PREVENTION: The most crucial step in preventing skin cancer is taking precautions against the sun’s harmful rays. Put on protective clothing and hats, seek shade when available, and ensure your sunscreen has a broad-spectrum protection factor of at least 30. Also, avoid tanning beds and other activities that expose you to ultraviolet radiation.