Cancer is a deadly disease that kills millions of people around the world each year. It is when cells in one’s body start growing uncontrollably and can spread throughout the body. Though there are so many different types of cancer, they all start because cells in the body act abnormally. Even though some cancers are more common than others, their impacts on the body are different. Knowing the most common types of cancer, their symptoms, and how to prevent them will help you make informed decisions about your health. In this article, we’ll cover 7 types of cancer, their symptoms, the importance of early detection, and ways of prevention.
Also Read:- What Is Cancer? A Simple Guide to Understand the Disease
Types of Cancer
1. Carcinoma
The most common is carcinomas. These cancers start in the cells covering the surface of the body or lining organs and tissues. Such type of cancer targets skin, lung, and breast tissue, among others. Carcinomas can appear inside the body and outside of the body and often form tumors.
2. Sarcoma
Sarcomas are a kind of cancerous growth originating from the body’s connective tissues, which include bones, muscles, fat, and blood vessels. This is less common than carcinomas. Some examples are osteosarcoma or bone cancer, soft tissue cancers, etc. Sarcomas sometimes tend to be more aggressive and fast spreading.
3. Leukemia
Leukemia is a blood cancer disease that affects the blood and the bone marrow. It does not form a solid tumor but leads to the production of abnormal white blood cells, which crowd out normal blood cells, making it difficult for the body to function sufficiently. There are various types of leukemia, and it can affect all ages.
4. Lymphoma
Lymphomas are cancers that start in the lymphatic system, a part of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system helps fight infection. If cancer begins to form here, it affects the overall immunity of the body. There are two forms of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Both of these conditions affect white blood cells and spread to other parts of the body.
5. Melanoma
Melanoma is a skin cancer that begins in the cells, called melanocytes, that give the skin its color. Although not as common as other forms of skin cancers, melanoma tends to be deadlier because it can spread quickly to other parts of the body.
6. Brain and Spinal Cord Cancers
These cancers begin in the brain or spinal cord and can even affect the function of the body. Brain cancers may be benign or malignant. Brain cancers include gliomas and meningiomas. One of the reasons why these cancers are difficult to treat is usually due to their location.
7. Liver Cancer
Liver cancer starts in the liver and is also known as hepatocellular carcinoma. The majority of these are often linked to chronic liver diseases, like hepatitis or cirrhosis. Liver cancer can be very aggressive and, on average, most cases are already identified at a late stage, making the treatment complicated.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of the kind of cancer and the area of location vary. However, some general symptoms that might point to having cancer include:
- Tiredness: Feeling very tired always, even after resting properly, is the most common symptom of all cancers.
- Swelling: An abnormal swelling that does not disappear or worsens with time, for instance. Cancer might be one of the possible causes.
- Color change in skin: The skin may change color, shape, or size, depending on the moles or spots. Observe the swelling; some may have moles whose colors, shapes, or sizes change.
- Persistent cough or breathlessness: A cough that doesn’t go away or worsens with time could be an indicator of lung cancer.
- Unexplained bleeding or discharge: Digestive and reproductive cancers may cause unexplained bleeding or discharge.
- Unintended weight loss: Unintentional weight loss may be an indication of cancer, especially if the loss is significant.
Why Is Early Detection Important?
Early detection of cancer also significantly influences the chance that the disease will be completely treated.
When cancer is detected early, it is usually smaller and has not spread to other parts of the body. In such a case, it usually allows for more effective treatment and may have positive effects. Regular screenings, such as mammograms for breast cancer and colonoscopies for colorectal cancer, are essential for detecting cancer early. If you have a family history of cancer, consult with your doctor about the best screening options for you.
Prevention
While not all cancers can be prevented, there are steps you can take to lower your risk. Here are some ways to help prevent cancer:
- Avoid tobacco: Cigarette smoking and other types of tobacco use are the leading causes of cancer morbidity and mortality. For instance, it is one of the most serious risks for lung cancer.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Many fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat proteins contribute to a lower risk for many cancers. Limit intake of processed and red meats, which have been associated with increased cancer risks.
- Protective Measures: Keep your skin away from direct exposure to the sun. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to skin cancer, including melanoma.
- Reduce alcohol intake: Higher alcohol intake increases the risk of liver and breast cancer, as well as several other forms of cancer.
- Vaccination: Most cancers are also diagnosed through viral infections like the human papillomavirus (HPV), where a girl is diagnosed with cervical cancer. Safeguarding from such viruses can be achieved through vaccination.
- Health checkups and screenings: In many situations, cancer bodies save lives, as the disease’s prognosis differs depending on its stage.
Conclusion
Cancer is a deadly disease that kills millions of people each year; yet, it is possible to be well-informed about cancer, including its various types, causes, and preventive methods.
Although numerous factors are influenced by heredity, there is much we can change about our lifestyle to lower our risk of developing one of these diseases. Frequent planned checkups and awareness of potential signs can often save lives because early detection is essential for effective treatment. Knowing the facts, being proactive about health, and staying informed can frequently reduce the risk of developing cancer. Furthermore, if you have any questions about cancer or your health, contact your healthcare professional.