The Basics of Cancer
Cancer is a medical condition characterized by the growth of abnormal cells that can break away from a primary tumor and spread to other parts of the body. This process is known as metastasis and may be accompanied by bloodstream or lymphatic system travel. The primary cancer is still localized to its starting point, but it can become large enough to cause problems in other organs, notably the brain.
In some cases, cancer is caused by a single gene mutating. Other times, the cancer is the result of an accumulation of changes in the chromosomes of the cells involved. Although the exact mechanism for cancer development is not clear, researchers have identified 400 genes that have been associated with this process.
Most people with cancer are diagnosed after undergoing a series of screening tests. These tests determine the size and location of the tumor. However, the only way to make a definitive diagnosis of most types of cancer is to perform a biopsy. A biopsy involves the removal of a small amount of tissue. While the results may be inconclusive, a positive diagnosis can help patients take steps to prevent or treat the disease.
Many people with cancer have no symptoms. If diagnosed early, treatment can be effective. New treatments are constantly being tested, including therapies that target abnormalities in cancer cell behavior. There are also drugs that can block the blood supply to the tumor and help the immune system fight the disease. Some genetic testing is also available.
It is also important to note that not all types of cancer are equally deadly. For instance, some forms of breast cancer can cause cancer in other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. Additionally, some forms of cancer are not associated with smoking.
Despite the fact that most forms of cancer are difficult to treat, some patients have no symptoms at all. People who experience unusual patterns in their cancer patterns may be referred to the state health department. Contact the cancer registry in your state for more information.
A newer form of treatment is the use of “designer drugs”. These compounds have been found to be effective in blocking the blood supply required for tumor growth and, in some cases, assisting the immune system in fighting the disease. They may also be able to correct a genetic defect that causes cancer.
Cancers are very ambitious. They crack up the inner circle. To some, they are the purveyors of affection, a shoulder to cry on and a deliciously baked cookie.
In some cases, the tumor may be a discrete lump, while in others, it is more like a growing mushroom. The latter is often called a malignant tumor, which grows and spreads through the blood and lymph systems.
Cancers are a very emotional and sensitive subject. When faced with the prospect of a life-altering diagnosis, many patients seek advice from friends, family members, or doctors. As with any medical condition, the prognosis is usually based on the patient’s overall health.
Cancer is a medical condition characterized by the growth of abnormal cells that can break away from a primary tumor and spread to other parts of the body. This process is known as metastasis and may be accompanied by bloodstream or lymphatic system travel. The primary cancer is still localized to its starting point, but it can become large enough to cause problems in other organs, notably the brain. In some cases, cancer is caused by a single gene mutating. Other times, the cancer is the result of an accumulation of changes in the chromosomes of the cells involved. Although the exact mechanism for cancer development is not clear, researchers have identified 400 genes that have been associated with this process. Most people with cancer are diagnosed after undergoing a series of screening tests. These tests determine the size and location of the tumor. However, the only way to make a definitive diagnosis of most types of cancer is to perform a biopsy. A biopsy involves the removal of a small amount of tissue. While the results may be inconclusive, a positive diagnosis can help patients take steps to prevent or treat the disease. Many people with cancer have no symptoms. If diagnosed early, treatment can be effective. New treatments are constantly being tested, including therapies that target abnormalities in cancer cell behavior. There are also drugs that can block the blood supply to the tumor and help the immune system fight the disease. Some genetic testing is also available. It is also important to note that not all types of cancer are equally deadly. For instance, some forms of breast cancer can cause cancer in other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. Additionally, some forms of cancer are not associated with smoking. Despite the fact that most forms of cancer are difficult to treat, some patients have no symptoms at all. People who experience unusual patterns in their cancer patterns may be referred to the state health department. Contact the cancer registry in your state for more information. A newer form of treatment is the use of “designer drugs”. These compounds have been found to be effective in blocking the blood supply required for tumor growth and, in some cases, assisting the immune system in fighting the disease. They may also be able to correct a genetic defect that causes cancer. Cancers are very ambitious. They crack up the inner circle. To some, they are the purveyors of affection, a shoulder to cry on and a deliciously baked cookie. In some cases, the tumor may be a discrete lump, while in others, it is more like a growing mushroom. The latter is often called a malignant tumor, which grows and spreads through the blood and lymph systems. Cancers are a very emotional and sensitive subject. When faced with the prospect of a life-altering diagnosis, many patients seek advice from friends, family members, or doctors. As with any medical condition, the prognosis is usually based on the patient’s overall health.