Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. Cancer has different types and every type has pairs of symptoms and therapies . Here's an overview of cancer, its types, symptoms, and prevention:
Types of Cancer:
- 1-Carcinomas: These cancers start in the epithelial cells, which are the cells that line the body's internal and external surfaces. For examples colon, lung and breast.
- 2-Sarcomas: These cancers start in the connective tissue, such as bone, muscle, and cartilage.
- 3-Leukemias: These cancers start in the blood-forming tissue, such as the bone marrow.
- 4-Lymphomas: These cancers start in the lymphatic system, which helps fight infection and disease.
- Brain and spinal cord tumors: These cancers start in the brain or spinal cord.
Symptoms of Cancer:
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain
- Skin changes, such as jaundice or redness
- Persistent cough or hoarseness
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Sores that don't heal
- Unusual bleeding or discharge
Reasons for spreading:
There are several reasons why cancer can spread:
Genetic mutations: Genetic mutations are changes that occur in the DNA of cells, which can cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. These mutations can be inherited or acquired during a person's lifetime, and they can increase the risk of cancer spreading.
Tumor microenvironment: The tumor microenvironment is the area surrounding the cancer cells, which includes blood vessels, immune cells, and other cells. Cancer cells can manipulate this environment to promote their growth and survival, which can facilitate the spread of cancer.
Angiogenesis: Angiogenesis is the process by which new blood vessels form, and it plays a critical role in cancer growth and spread. Cancer cells can produce molecules that promote angiogenesis, which can help them receive nutrients and oxygen to grow and spread.
Lymphatic system: The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and tissues that helps to fight infections and remove waste from the body. Cancer cells can travel through the lymphatic system and spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes.
Invasion: Cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and organs, which can facilitate their spread to other parts of the body. This can occur when cancer cells produce enzymes that break down the extracellular matrix, which is the tissue that supports cells in organs and tissues.
Immune system: The immune system plays a critical role in identifying and destroying cancer cells. However, cancer cells can evade the immune system by producing molecules that suppress the immune response, which can allow them to grow and spread.
Treatment resistance: Cancer cells can develop resistance to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments, which can allow them to survive and continue to grow and spread.
In conclusion, cancer spread can occur due to a variety of factors, including genetic mutations, tumor microenvironment, angiogenesis, lymphatic system, invasion, immune system, and treatment resistance. Understanding the mechanisms that underlie cancer spread can help to develop new treatments and improve outcomes for patients with cancer.
Prevention of Cancer:
- Don't use tobacco
- Use healthful diet that includes vegetables and fruits
- Exercise regularly
- Protect your skin from the sun
- Get vaccinated against certain viruses that can cause cancer, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B
- Used syringes and keep away from unsafe sex
- Colonoscopy and mammograms should be done on regular basis
It's important to remember that cancer prevention is not foolproof, and anyone can develop cancer. If you have concerns about your risk of cancer, talk to your doctor. Detections at very early stage and their treatment can notably enhance the chances of survival.
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