What is Cancer? A Complete Explanation of Its Causes and Symptoms

Cancer is one of the diseases that is a serious concern worldwide. This condition not only attacks the body physically but also has a major emotional impact on sufferers and their families. However, what exactly is cancer? How does this disease develop, and what are the causes and symptoms? This article will thoroughly examine cancer as a first step to understanding this complex disease. Find a complete explanation to raise awareness and support early prevention.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a general term that refers to a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. These cells can invade surrounding healthy tissue and spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic system, in a process known as metastasis.

Normally, the human body has mechanisms to regulate cell growth and regeneration. However, in the case of cancer, this system fails, so that abnormal cells continue to divide uncontrollably. There are more than 100 known types of cancer, including lung, breast, colon, prostate, skin, and leukemia.

Read more : What is Cancer?

Causes of Cancer

The causes of cancer are very complex and involve a variety of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Here are some of the main causes that are often associated with the development of cancer:

1. Genetic Factors

Some cases of cancer can be caused by inherited genetic mutations. For example, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are known to increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

2. Unhealthy Lifestyle

- Smoking: Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer and is associated with other types of cancer.

- Poor Diet: A diet high in saturated fat and low in fiber can increase the risk of colon cancer.

- Lack of Physical Activity: Lack of exercise can also increase the risk of various types of cancer.

3. Environmental Exposure

- Hazardous Chemicals: Exposure to carcinogenic substances such as asbestos and benzene can trigger cancer.

- UV Radiation: Excessive sun exposure can cause skin cancer, such as melanoma.

4. Viral and Bacterial Infections

Some infections are known to increase the risk of cancer, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus which is associated with cervical cancer and hepatitis B or C which can cause liver cancer.

Read more : 8 Things You Do not Know Can Cause Cancer

Cancer Symptoms

Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, but some common signs to look out for include:

1. Unexplained Weight Changes

Sudden weight loss for no apparent reason is often an early sign of cancer.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Prolonged fatigue despite adequate rest can be a symptom of certain cancers, such as leukemia or colon cancer.

3. Lumps or Swelling

Any abnormal lumps, especially in areas such as the breast, armpit, or neck, need to be checked out.

4. Skin Changes

- Yellowing, darkening, or reddish skin color.

- The appearance of sores that don't heal.

- Moles that change shape or size.

5. Digestive or Bowel Disorders

- Difficulty swallowing or abdominal pain.

- Changes in bowel or bladder patterns, such as prolonged diarrhea or blood in the urine.

6. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness

Lung cancer is often characterized by a cough that doesn't go away or coughing up blood.

How is Cancer Diagnosed?

Cancer diagnosis requires a series of tests to confirm the presence of abnormal cells. Some common methods used include:

1. Imaging Tests: Such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to detect tumors.

2. Biopsy: Taking a tissue sample for further analysis.

3. Laboratory Tests: Including blood and urine tests to detect cancer markers.

Cancer Prevention Steps

While not all cancers can be prevented, there are several steps that can help reduce your risk:

1. Avoid Smoking: This step is very effective in preventing lung cancer and other types.

2. Healthy Diet: Increase your consumption of fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber foods.

3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day can reduce your risk of cancer.

4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Use sunscreen to prevent skin cancer.

5. Vaccination: HPV and hepatitis vaccines can protect against virus-related cancers.

Cancer is a complex disease that can affect anyone. Understanding the causes and symptoms of cancer is an important step in prevention and early detection. With a healthy lifestyle and high awareness of risk factors, we can reduce our chances of getting this disease.

Remember, if you experience any suspicious symptoms, consult a medical professional immediately. Timely information can save lives. Stay aware of your health and the health of those around you.

Reference Sources:

- [Cancer Research UK](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/)

- [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/)

- [American Cancer Society](https://www.cancer.org/)