When a normal cell turns into a cancer cell, the process mimics a chain reaction. Initial errors compound into larger ones, allowing cells to escape more controls. This rebellion-like scenario is a form of evolution that works against the body’s design and creates an undesirable situation. This ongoing process, called clonal evolution, drives tumor progression towards more invasive stages. The resulting heterogeneity of cancer cells makes treatment strategies much more difficult.
Cancer begins when a cell breaks free of normal restraints on cell division and follows its own agenda for cell proliferation. This abnormal process causes all cells produced by the ancestral cell to behave inappropriately and grow in an uncontrolled manner. These cells form a tumor that stays in the tissue it originated in or spreads to nearby tissues. This is known as invasive cancer. Invasive cancers spread throughout the body and may have spread to other organs.
In addition to these symptoms, there are over two hundred subtypes of cancer, including the two most common, non-small cell lunch cancer and lung cancer. Each of these types of cancer has a multitude of symptoms and causes. Despite the fact that there is no single cause of cancer, it is important to seek medical attention when you notice symptoms. Some symptoms of cancer are unrelated to its location and may be misdiagnosed as something else. Your doctor will be able to advise you on further tests to determine whether or not they are linked.
Although the archaeological record suggests that there was no widespread disease in antiquity, this is not certain. The absence of cancer in the ancient world is attributed to many confounding factors, including shorter lifespan in ancient populations. Most ancient Egyptians died of cancer when they were around the age of thirty. However, the main type of cancer that is not age dependent is osteosarcoma. Moreover, the emergence of modern methods of disease diagnosis and treatment of cancer may have influenced the rate of occurrence of the disease.
Treatment options for cancer depend on the type of cancer and its stage. Some patients have surgery while others have chemotherapy or hormonal therapies. In both cases, doctors may prescribe medications to increase the immune system’s capability to fight cancer cells. However, chemotherapy treatments have their side effects and are not appropriate for all cancer patients. If your doctor finds your cancer has spread throughout the body, it may be necessary to change your lifestyle and undergo treatment to alleviate the symptoms.
The causes of cancer vary by species. Infections account for about 18% of cancer deaths worldwide. This proportion varies greatly by region, with a higher percentage in Africa than in the developed world. While cancer-causing viruses are the most common cause, bacteria and parasites can also play a role. These causes may make cancer more difficult to control and to treat. It is important to seek the help of a qualified medical professional if you suspect cancer.
