Exploring cancer and type of cancer

Introduction

Cancer is a complex and large group of diseases that can affect various parts of the body. In this article, we will explore the different types of cancers and the ways they are classified. Understanding the different types of cancer can help in the development of effective treatment strategies and improve outcomes for those affected. Furthermore, we discuss the characteristics and potential causes of each type of cancer as well as available treatment options.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a disease that occurs when cells in the body grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. Normally, the body’s cells grow and divide in a healthy way to form new cells as per the body’s needs. As cells become old or damaged, they die and are replaced by new cells.

However, when cells become cancerous, they divide in an abnormal way to create a mass of unhealthy cells called a tumour. There are two main types of tumours:

• Benign tumours:These are non-cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the body. These usually do not pose a serious threat to health, although they can cause health problems depending on their size and location in the body. Examples include fibroids, lipomas, and cysts.
• Malignant tumours:These are cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body. They are generally more serious and can be life-threatening if not treated in time. Examples include leukaemia, lung cancer, and breast cancer.

Types of Cancer

There are many different types of cancer, and they can be classified in several ways.

Types of Cancer (based on the cell of origin)

Cancer can originate from different types of cells in the body, and the type of cell can often determine the characteristics and behaviour of cancer. Here is a brief overview of some common types of cancer-based on the type of cell they originated from:

1. Epithelial cells:Cancer that originates from epithelial cells—the cells that line the surface of the body and its organs—include breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer.
2. Connective tissue:Cancer originates from connective tissue cells—cells that provide support and structure to the body—including sarcoma and fibrosarcoma.
3. Blood cells:Cancer originates from blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, including leukaemia and lymphoma.
4. Nerve cells: Cancer that originates from nerve cells, or neurons, can include types such as brain cancer and neuroblastoma.
5. Germ cells:Cancer that originates from germ cells—cells from which eggs or sperm originate—can include testicular cancer and ovarian cancer.

Types of Cancer (based on their site)

Cancer can occur in many different parts of the body, and the location or site of cancer can often determine its characteristics and behaviour. Here is a list of some common types of cancer-based on their site:

1. Breast cancer:Breast cancer is a condition in which cells in the breast tissue grow and divide uncontrollably. This type of cancer can be signalled by the presence of a lump in the breast, changes in the size or shape of the breast, or changes in the skin on the breast. Early detection of breast cancer via mammography, a process of using low-energy X-rays to screen the human breast, can greatly improve treatment outcomes.
2. Lung cancer:This type of cancer affects the cells in the lungs and can cause chest pain, coughing, weight loss, fatigue, and difficulty in breathing. The preliminary investigation could include imaging tests such as CT-PET scans with blood tests. While a CT scan shows the body’s organs and tissues in pictures, a PET scan looks for any abnormal activity. A biopsy can confirm the prognosis.
3. Oral cancer:Oral cancer affects the tissues of the mouth and throat, including the lips, gums, tongue, cheek lining, salivary glands, and the pharynx. The common symptoms include persistent mouth sores, difficulty in swallowing, change in voice, and pain/numbness in the mouth or lips. A physical examination by the doctor followed by imaging tests and a biopsy can help confirm the prognosis. 
4. Prostate cancer:Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland—a small gland that produces semen in males. Symptoms include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, and pain in the lower back or pelvis. It is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests.
5. Skin cancer:Skin cancer affects the cells in the skin. Symptoms can include the appearance of a new mole or a change in an existing mole, an unhealed sore on the skin, a scaly patch on the skin that is crusty and bleeds easily, or a large growing abnormal mole. Skin cancer can be typically confirmed through a biopsy.

Treatments for Cancer

There are several treatment options for cancer; the most appropriate will depend on the type and stage of cancer as well as the overall health of the patient. The common treatment measures would include one or a combination of the following options:

1. Surgery:This involves partial or full removal of the cancerous tissue or organ.
2. Chemotherapy: This involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously, or topically.
3. Radiotherapy:This involves the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiotherapy can be administered externally or internally, depending on the location of cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are carcinogens?

Carcinogens are substances that can cause cancer by damaging DNA in cells and leading to genetic mutations. These mutations can cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, resulting in the formation of lumps or tumours.

• How do carcinogens enter the body?

Carcinogens can enter the body through various methods, including inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorption. Some examples of carcinogens include tobacco, alcohol, specific harmful chemicals, and specific types of radiation.

• Is cancer life-threatening?

Cancer is the leading cause of death globally, as per WHO. Research indicates that approximately half of the men and a third of women globally will develop cancer at some point in their lives.

• What do you call a doctor who specializes in cancer?

An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of cancer. In a hospital, the department of Oncology is responsible for heralding all clinical activities on cancer.

. Can cancer be cured?

Whether a person’s cancer can be cured depends on the type and stage of cancer, the type of treatment they can get, and other factors. Some cancers are more likely to be cured than others. But each cancer needs to be treated differently. There isn’t one cure for cancer.