Cancer is a class of diseases characterized by out-of-control cell growth. There are over 100 different types of cancer, and each is classified by the type of cell that is initially affected. Cancer harms the body when damaged cells divide uncontrollably to form lumps or masses of tissue called tumors (except in the case of leukemia where cancer prohibits normal blood function). Tumors can grow and invade nearby tissues and organs. Cancer that has metastasized (spread) from its original site to other locations in the body is especially dangerous because it becomes very difficult to treat effectively.
Cells in nearly any part of the body can become cancerous and spread to other areas. To date, there is no certain way to prevent all cancers. However, research has shown that some factors may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer while others may decrease your risk. You cannot change some risk factors, such as family history or inherited genes. But you can change other risk factors, such as smoking or spending too much time in the sun without protection. The best way to reduce your chances of getting cancer is to make healthy lifestyle choices and get regular medical screenings as recommended by your doctor based on your individual risks.
There are many possible signs and symptoms associated with cancer since it can develop anywhere in the body at any age; however, some cancers may not cause any symptoms at all until they have reached an advanced stage. If you experience any unusual changes that last for more than a few weeks, be sure to see your doctor for a thorough examination so that any potential problems can be ruled out as early as possible.
Common warning signs include:
•A new lump or mass in the breast, testicle, abdomen, neck, head, or elsewhere on the body
•A persistent cough or hoarseness
•Difficulty swallowing
•Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating
•Chronic fatigue
•Unexplained weight loss/gain
•Changes in bowel movements including constipation or diarrhea lasting more than a few days
In addition to these general warnings signs which could indicate any number of health concerns unrelated to cancer, there are also specific warning signs that tend to be more associated with particular types of cancer:
Breast Cancer: A lump or thickening in either breast; changes in size or shape of breasts; nipple discharge; irritation or dimpling of breast skin; redness or flaky skin on breast; nipple turning inward towards chest wall
Colorectal Cancer: Rectal bleeding; blood in stool; abdominal pain; cramping feeling full even after not eating much; unexplained weight loss
Lung Cancer: Shortness breath; coughing up blood; wheezing; reoccurring lung infections like bronchitis & pneumonia
Prostate Cancer: Difficulty urinating/painful urination/urinary frequency especially at night skin rash ; itching ; joint stiffness / pain ; muscle weakness / wasting