What is cancer?
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell proliferation. These cells can invade neighboring tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. There are over 100 types of cancer, each classified according to the type of cell initially affected.
What are the main causes of cancer?
The causes of cancer are multiple and complex, including genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. Risk factors include smoking, a diet low in fruit and vegetables, excessive body weight, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to ultraviolet radiation and certain viruses and infections.
How is cancer diagnosed?
Cancer diagnosis usually involves a biopsy, where a tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope. Other methods include medical imaging, such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans, as well as blood tests, which can detect substances produced by cancers.
What treatments are available for cancer?
Treatment options vary according to the type and stage of cancer, but include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and hormone therapy. The choice of treatment depends on many factors, including the location and size of the tumor, as well as the patient's general state of health.
Can cancer be prevented?
Although not all cancers are preventable, it is possible to reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer. This includes stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, regular physical activity, moderate alcohol consumption and protection from ultraviolet radiation.
What impact does cancer have on society?
Cancer is one of the world's leading causes of death, having a significant impact on individuals and their families, as well as on healthcare systems. The costs associated with diagnosis, treatment and palliative care are considerable, underlining the importance of prevention, early detection and research to improve treatment and quality of life for patients.
What are the common symptoms of cancer?
Cancer symptoms vary considerably according to the type and stage of the disease, but some common signs include unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel or bladder habits, unusual bleeding or discharge, sores that don't heal, persistent fatigue, and the presence of lumps or swellings. It's crucial to consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
How does lifestyle influence cancer risk?
Lifestyle plays a significant role in the risk of developing certain cancers. For example, smoking is the world's leading preventable risk factor for cancer, particularly lung, mouth and throat cancer. An unbalanced diet, high in fat and low in fruit and vegetables, increases the risk of cancer, as does a sedentary lifestyle and excessive alcohol consumption. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Is cancer hereditary?
Although the majority of cancers are not directly inherited, certain cancer-predisposing genes can be passed on from parent to child, increasing the risk of certain types of cancer. Breast, ovarian, colon and prostate cancers are among those with a significant hereditary component. Genetic tests can be carried out to assess the risk of hereditary cancers in high-risk families.
What role does diet play in cancer prevention?
A balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and fiber, and low in saturated fats, is associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, such as those of the colon, stomach and esophagus. Antioxidants, abundant in fruit and vegetables, can help protect against cancer by neutralizing the damage caused by free radicals in the body. It is also advisable to limit consumption of red and processed meats, which have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
How important is early cancer detection?
Early detection can save lives by finding cancer at a stage when it is easier to treat. Screening methods, such as mammograms for breast cancer and screening tests for colorectal cancer, can identify cancers before symptoms appear. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment and may, in some cases, enable cancer to be treated before it becomes invasive.
