Protect Yourself from Cancer by Recognizing the Trigger

Cancer is a frightening disease for many people because the death rate is quite high. Moreover, there are several types of cancer that grow quite quickly, so the treatment process sometimes cannot keep up with the growth.

Preventing cancer is not easy, but minimizing the risk of getting cancer can be done as a preventive measure. The following is further information about cancer and tips for minimizing the risk. 

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow uncontrollably and abnormally. These cells then form tumors or tissue masses which can be malignant (dangerous) or benign (harmless).

The process of cancer is simple, namely that it starts when cells in the body experience genetic changes or mutations. This mutation can be caused by various factors, such as exposure to dangerous chemicals, radiation, or errors in the cell division process. Then, cells that experience mutations will grow and reproduce uncontrollably, forming tumors. This malignant tumor can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. 

Types of Cancer

Cancer can be classified based on the type of cell it originates from, location in the body, and severity. Following are some common types of cancer:

Carcinoma

Carcinoma is the most common type of cancer. Derived from epithelial cells, namely cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body, such as the skin, digestive tract and lungs. For example skin cancer, lung cancer and breast cancer.

Sarcoma

Derived from connective tissue, such as bone, muscle and fat. For example osteosarcoma (bone cancer), liposarcoma (fatty tissue cancer). 

Leukemia

Cancer that attacks white blood cells in the bone marrow. White blood cells have an important function in the body's immunity to fight microorganisms that cause infection. However, abnormalities in the bone marrow cause its production to be excessive, so it attacks healthy cells in the body.

Lymphoma

Blood cancer that causes enlargement of the lymph nodes. Generally occurs in the neck, armpits and thigh creases. 

The various types of cancer mentioned above can appear in various parts of the body and have unique characteristics. However, all types of cancer have one thing in common, namely that they arise due to changes at the level of the body's cells. These changes can be caused by various risk factors which we will discuss further. By identifying and minimizing these risk factors, eating can reduce the chance of developing cancer. 

Risk Factors that Cause Cancer 

There are several factors that can increase the chance of developing cancer, including:

Smoking

Cigarettes contain thousands of dangerous chemicals that can damage body cells and are the biggest risk factor for various types of cancer, including lung, mouth, throat and bladder cancer.

Age

The risk of developing cancer generally increases with age. According to NCI’S Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program, The general age at which cancer is diagnosed is 66 years. However, cancer can occur at any age, for example bone cancer is often diagnosed at around 20 years of age. 

Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer, such as mouth, throat, liver and breast cancer.

Genetics

A family history of certain cancers can increase a person's risk of developing cancer. Certain genetic mutations can make a person more susceptible to cancer.

Obesity

Being overweight can increase the risk of various types of cancer, including colon, breast and prostate cancer. 

Viral Infection

Some types of viruses, such as HPV (human papillomavirus) and hepatitis B, can cause cancer, as can almost all cervical cancers and some other cancers. 

Radiation

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight can increase the risk of skin cancer. Ionizing radiation, such as X-rays, can also increase the risk of cancer. 

Understanding cancer risk factors is critical to preventing this disease. By knowing what can increase your risk of developing cancer, you can take proactive steps to reduce your exposure to these factors. These preventive steps can not only reduce the risk of developing cancer, but can also improve the quality of life for the better. 

Cancer Prevention Measures

Although not all types of cancer can be completely prevented, you can reduce your risk by doing the following:

• Eat healthy foods, add lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain an ideal weight
• Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol
• Use sunscreen to protect the skin from the sun
• Carry out HPV and Hepatitis B vaccinations
• Check your health regularly

Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment depends on the type, stage, and location where the cancer is located. Some commonly used treatment methods include:

• Surgery, removing tumors or cancerous tissue.
• Chemotherapy, using drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Radiotherapy uses radiation to kill cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy attacks cancer cells specifically using specially designed drugs.
• Immunotherapy, utilizing the body's immune system to fight cancer cells

Prevention is the most effective step in fighting cancer. However, if cancer has been diagnosed, prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to increase the chances of cure. Consult with Oncology Specialist Of Premier Hospital Surabaya to get more information related to cancer.

Cancer is a serious disease, but with a healthy lifestyle and early detection, we can reduce the risk of developing this disease and success in cancer treatment gives hope to sufferers.

For information and to make an appointment, contact us at:

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