It is a condition that occurs as a result of cells dividing and multiplying uncontrollably, and covers many diseases. It can develop almost anywhere in the body and usually leads to tumor formation. Environmental factors, genetic predisposition and lifestyle are the main factors that affect cancer development. Early diagnosis increases the chance of treatment. Awareness, regular checkups and a healthy lifestyle are of great importance in the fight against cancer (General).
Cancer (General) Causes
Cancer is a complex disease that occurs when cells divide abnormally and uncontrollably. Many factors can trigger these cellular changes that lead to cancer. The causes of cancer are based on genetic, environmental, biological and lifestyle factors.
Genetic Factors: One of the most important causes of cancer is genetic mutations. Inherited genetic mutations can be passed down through families, thus creating a predisposition to certain types of cancer.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors play a major role in cancer formation. Smoking is one of the most common causes of cancer and can lead to many types of cancer, especially lung cancer. Long-term exposure to chemicals, radiation, and air pollution also causes it.
Biological Factors: Some viral infections can increase the risk of cancer. For example, Hepatitis B and C viruses can cause liver cancer. However, HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) can cause cervical cancer. Additionally, a weakened immune system can make the body vulnerable to carcinogens.
Lifestyle and Nutrition: Malnutrition, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity and obesity increase the susceptibility.
In summary, there is no single cause. There may be many factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental effects, infections and lifestyle choices. Knowing these factors is important for early diagnosis and determining ways to prevent.
Cancer (General) Symptoms
Cancer (General) is a disease characterized by abnormal cell growth and spread in the body. Therefore, its symptoms are also quite diverse. It can show different symptoms depending on the type of cancer, the organ it is located in and the extent of its spread. However, there are some symptoms that are common to many types of cancer in general. Early recognition of these symptoms plays a critical role in the treatment of the disease.
Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained fatigue can be one of the first symptoms of many types of cancer. Unrelieved, extreme fatigue occurs when the body loses energy while fighting cancer cells.
Weight Loss: Rapid and unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of cancer. It is usually evident in digestive system cancers. It develops as a result of the metabolism's response to cancer cells.
Pain: Some types of cancer can cause pain, especially in advanced stages. Bone cancer can cause constant pain in the bones, while brain tumors can cause headaches and neurological symptoms. The severity and location of the pain varies depending on the type of cancer.
Skin Changes: Abnormal changes seen on the skin may be a sign of cancer. The formation of new moles, changes in shape, color or size of existing moles indicate skin cancer. In addition, skin color changes such as yellowing, redness or darkening can also be associated with some types of cancer.
Non-healing wounds and bleeding: A wound that won't heal is a sign of cancer, such as skin cancer. Inexplicable bleeding can also be a serious sign. For example, blood in the urine or stool may indicate colon or bladder cancer.
Swelling in Lymph Nodes: It is caused by temporary conditions related to the body's immune system. It can also be a symptom of cancer types such as lymphoma.
Not all of these symptoms are specific to cancer. Symptoms that persist for a long time or worsen should be seen by a healthcare professional. Early detection greatly increases the chance of cancer cure.
Cancer (General) Treatment Methods
Cancer (General) treatment varies according to the type and stage of the disease, the general health status of the patient and the degree of spread of the cancer. Many methods have been developed for cancer treatment in the medical world. These treatment options are usually used together to achieve effective results.
Surgical intervention: One of the most common methods of cancer treatment is surgery. Surgery aims to remove cancerous tissue or tumors from the body. In cancers diagnosed at an early stage, surgery can completely eliminate the disease.
Chemotherapy: Chemical drugs are used to stop cancer cells from growing and dividing. Chemotherapy travels throughout the body to target cancer cells and is an effective treatment option for cancers that have spread. However, chemotherapy can also damage healthy cells, so side effects (nausea, hair loss, fatigue) may occur.
Radiotherapy: It uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. Radiotherapy can be used to shrink tumors or stop them from spreading before surgery. It can also be used to relieve pain caused by cancer.
Immunotherapy: It is a treatment method that aims to fight cancer cells by strengthening the immune system. It activates the body's own immune system and allows it to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Immunotherapy is especially effective in certain types of cancer.
Hormone Therapy: It is used especially in hormone-sensitive cancer types. It aims to block the effects of hormones that promote cancer growth. Hormone therapy can slow or stop tumor growth.
Targeted Therapy: It focuses on specific features of cancer cells. It also causes less damage to healthy cells. Targeted therapies are often used in conjunction with other treatments.
In cancer (General) treatment, it is important to create a plan specific to each patient. The treatment process is personalized according to the stage and type of the disease and is carried out with a multidisciplinary approach. The combination of early diagnosis and correct treatment increases the chance of success in the fight against cancer.
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