World Cancer Day is observed on February 4 to educate the masses regarding the intensity of the disease. The day aims to create awareness, including the prevention of cancer. Cancer is a large group of diseases that can impact different organs or tissues altogether. In other words, cancer is a disease wherein it affects the body by growing cells abnormally which then divides uncontrollably.
Let us take a brief look into the types, causes, symptoms, and prevention of this life-threatening disease.
Types of cancer
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are over 120 types of cancer and related hereditary syndromes. Based on its formation and diagnosis, the treatment of the same is undertaken by the doctors. Here are some of the most crucial and common cancers across the world:
Bladder cancer is caused by smoking, genetic mutations, and even exposure to certain chemicals.
Breast cancer has become one of the most common kinds of cancers found across the globe. It is caused due to several lifestyle practices as well.
Liver cancer is yet another common one that can be prevented through vaccines against hepatitis B and avoiding drinking much.
Lung cancer is also a kind of disease that occurs mainly due to smoking, polluted environment, and other environmental causes.
Skin cancer has recently become very common because of the exposure to the ultraviolet or UV rays.
Symptoms and causes of cancer
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), cancer is caused by the transformation of normal cells into tumour cells in a multi-stage process. It generally progresses from a pre-cancerous lesion to a malignant tumour. These changes are caused by an interaction between a person's genetic factors and three major categories of external agents. They are:
The physical carcinogens, such as ultraviolet and ionizing radiation;
The chemical carcinogens including asbestos, components of tobacco smoke, alcohol, aflatoxin, and arsenic;
The biological carcinogens, such as infections from certain viruses, bacteria, or parasites.
Prevention of cancer
All types of cancer are not possible to prevent as most of them are caused by one or the other reasons. However, one can consider avoiding the habit that can hamper the human body from the core. According to WHO, there are certain practices that one can follow in the prevention of cancer. They are:
Avoid the intake of tobacco and reduce the consumption of alcohol.
By maintaining a healthy body weight and following a suitable diet including fruit and vegetables.
By including physical activities such as walking, running, and exercise in daily lifestyle.
By avoiding exposure to ultraviolet radiation and using sun protection measures.
By considering getting routine check-ups.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
