Learn About Cancer
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Cancer grows out of normal cells in the body. Normal cells multiply when the body needs them, and die when the body doesn't need them. Cancer appears to occur when the growth of cells in the body is out of control and cells divide too quickly. It can also occur when cells forget how to die. There can be several external and internal causes for developing a cancer and it can be develop in different organs and different body parts. The treatment for cancer varies based on the type and its stage. The stage of a cancer refers to how much it has grown and whether the tumor has spread from its original location. Even among people with one type of cancer, the outcome varies depending on the stage of the tumor when they are diagnosed.
Some cancers can be cured. Other cancers that are not curable can still be treated well. Some patients can live for many years with their cancer. Other tumors are quickly life-threatening. You can reduce the risk of getting a cancerous (malignant) tumor by:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Minimizing your exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals
- Not smoking or chewing tobacco
- Reducing sun exposure, especially if you burn easily
Screening of cancer can help in catching these cancers at their early stages when they are most treatable. Some people at high risk for developing certain cancers can take medication to reduce their risk.
Once a rare disease, cancer is now widespread, affecting as much as one-third of the population. Orthodox methods for treating cancer (radiation and chemotherapy) do not prolong life. The best approach to cancer is prevention. The best ways to prevent cancers are to stay healthy and have proper diet.
