Cancer 

Cancer encompasses a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells. These cells can invade and destroy healthy body tissue and may spread throughout the body. It remains a significant global health issue, being the second-leading cause of death worldwide. However, advances in screening, treatment, and prevention have led to improving survival rates for many types of cancer.

Symptoms

Cancer symptoms vary depending on the affected body part. General signs and symptoms associated with cancer include:

• Fatigue
• Lumps or areas of thickening under the skin
• Weight changes, including unintended loss or gain
• Skin changes, such as yellowing, darkening, redness, sores that won't heal, or changes to existing moles
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Persistent cough or trouble breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness
• Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating
• Persistent, unexplained muscle or joint pain
• Persistent, unexplained fevers or night sweats
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising

When to See a Doctor

It's important to consult a doctor if you experience any persistent signs or symptoms that concern you. Even if you don't have symptoms, discussing your cancer risk and appropriate screening tests with your doctor can be beneficial.

Causes

Cancer is primarily caused by mutations in the DNA within cells. These mutations can:

• Promote rapid cell growth
• Prevent normal cells from stopping their growth
• Result in errors during DNA repair

These mutations can be inherited or acquired after birth due to factors such as smoking, radiation, viruses, carcinogens, obesity, hormones, chronic inflammation, and lack of exercise.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing cancer:

• Age: Most cancers are diagnosed in individuals aged 65 or older.
• Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, sun exposure, obesity, and unsafe sex can increase cancer risk.
• Family History: Inherited genetic mutations can raise the likelihood of developing cancer.
• Health Conditions: Chronic conditions like ulcerative colitis can increase cancer risk.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to harmful chemicals, secondhand smoke, asbestos, and benzene can elevate cancer risk.

Complications

Cancer and its treatment can lead to various complications, including:

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Weight loss
• Chemical imbalances in the body
• Brain and nervous system issues
• Unusual immune system reactions
• Metastasis (spread of cancer)
• Recurrence

Prevention

To reduce the risk of cancer, consider the following steps:

• Stop Smoking: Quitting smoking reduces the risk of several cancers.
• Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to protect against skin cancer.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed meats.
• Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Combine a healthy diet with regular exercise to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
• Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Limit alcohol intake to up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.
• Schedule Cancer Screenings: Consult your doctor about appropriate screening tests based on your risk factors.
• Get Immunized: Vaccinations can prevent cancer-causing viruses like hepatitis B and HPV.