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There are more than 100 different types of cancer, each with distinct characteristics and challenges, but, in general, cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation and dissemination of certain cells.
Cells are normally generated and replaced as required to maintain regular functioning. However, cancer disrupts this process. Abnormal cells begin to form, dividing and growing uncontrollably while failing to undergo the natural cell death that typically occurs. Tumours may develop as a result of this cellular dysfunction.
In Singapore, it’s estimated that around one-third of the population may face a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. Meanwhile, in the US, cancer is the second leading cause of death, next to heart disease. Though these statistics are troubling, there’s a silver lining. Cancer detection, treatment, and prevention advances have significantly improved survival rates for various cancer types.
Detecting cancer at an early stage is crucial for effective treatment. When doctors identify cancer in its initial phases, they can promptly start appropriate treatment. By addressing the disease early on, oncologists can significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes and better overall patient health.
Cancer is a genetic disease that develops due to gene mutations responsible for regulating cell growth and division. The structure of DNA within each cell consists of numerous individual genes, each housing particular commands for the cell’s functions and reproduction. Any error in the directive has the potential to interfere with the regular functioning of cells and may play a role in the progression of cancer.
When specific genes go through mutations, they result in the formation of tumour clusters. A tumour can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumours are particularly dangerous because they can spread to neighbouring tissues. They can detach from the original tumours and travel throughout the body via the lymphatic system or circulation. This occurrence is known as metastasizing, which leads significantly to cancer-related mortality.
A gene mutation can happen for various reasons, including:
In most cases, the body can get rid of DNA-damaged cells before they develop into cancerous cells. However, this ability decreases as people age, increasing the likelihood of cancer. Also, every person’s cancer has a distinct mix of genetic alterations. As the cancer progresses, additional genetic changes can occur. Even within the same tumour, different cells may possess distinct genetic alterations.
Below are different types of cancer that top the list as the most common cancers worldwide:
Breast cancer, common in both genders but more prevalent in women, forms malignant tumours in breast cells. Signs include new lumps, nipple discharge, and tenderness.
Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate gland, leading to urinary and erectile problems in men.
Lung cancer affects the lungs, causing persistent cough, wheezing, and chest pain.
Colorectal cancers impact the colon and rectum, presenting symptoms like changes in bowel habits and abdominal pain.
The early stage of these different types of cancer may not show symptoms, necessitating tests for accurate diagnosis.
Awareness of early signs and symptoms is crucial for saving lives. The acronym CAUTION highlights seven potential warning signs of cancer:
Changes in the stool's colour, consistency, size, shape, diarrhoea, and constipation are warning indicators. Blood is evident in stool and/or urine. Additional signs include difficulty urinating and an insatiable need to pee.
These sores don't get better over time, develop bigger, get more painful, or start bleeding.
These symptoms include bloody discharge from the nipples, the penis, or other body parts. Additional cautionary indicators include unusual bruising and sudden vaginal bleeding.
Lumps or swelling in any area of the body are warning signs, particularly if they get larger. Even painless lumps must be checked out by a doctor. In this category, pain is often a late symptom that can point to a more severe stage of the disease.
Changes in the stool's colour, consistency, size, shape, diarrhoea, and constipation are warning indicators. Blood is evident in stool and/or urine. Additional signs include difficulty urinating and an insatiable need to pee.
These sores don't get better over time, develop bigger, get more painful, or start bleeding.
These symptoms include bloody discharge from the nipples, the penis, or other body parts. Additional cautionary indicators include unusual bruising and sudden vaginal bleeding.
Lumps or swelling in any area of the body are warning signs, particularly if they get larger. Even painless lumps must be checked out by a doctor. In this category, pain is often a late symptom that can point to a more severe stage of the disease.
Difficulty swallowing due to a sensation of pressure in the throat or chest is a significant warning sign. Other indicators comprise a loss of appetite, lack of hunger, or feeling full despite consuming only a tiny amount of food. In addition, constant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting may occur.
The ABCDEs (Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolution) are crucial guidelines when examining moles or skin lesions. Asymmetry refers to each half of the mole looking different. Check the border for jagged, uneven, or irregular edges. Watch for multiple colours in the mole. Note moles with a diameter greater than ¼ inch. Monitor for any changes in size, shape, or colour. This is vital for early detection.
A persistent cough that does not go away, coupled with a change in voice or hoarseness, is a red flag. Blood in the sputum is another sign to be mindful of.
Difficulty swallowing due to a sensation of pressure in the throat or chest is a significant warning sign. Other indicators comprise a loss of appetite, lack of hunger, or feeling full despite consuming only a tiny amount of food. In addition, constant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting may occur.
The ABCDEs (Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolution) are crucial guidelines when examining moles or skin lesions. Asymmetry refers to each half of the mole looking different. Check the border for jagged, uneven, or irregular edges. Watch for multiple colours in the mole. Note moles with a diameter greater than ¼ inch. Monitor for any changes in size, shape, or colour. This is vital for early detection.
A persistent cough that does not go away, coupled with a change in voice or hoarseness, is a red flag. Blood in the sputum is another sign to be mindful of.
In addition to CAUTION, there are other prevalent cancer warning signs to be aware of:
If any of these symptoms are observed, prompt medical attention should be sought for further evaluation and treatment.
Cancer progression begins with the transformation of normal cells into tumour cells, influenced by genetic factors and three types of carcinogens, which are cancer-causing substances or agents:
Age-related factors and declining cellular repair mechanisms increase cancer risk as people age. It is also crucial to understand that certain cancer risk factors are controllable. Awareness is crucial in this respect.
For instance, knowledge of the various types of prostate cancer can motivate individuals to take preventative measures, such as avoiding a high-fat diet, especially red and processed meats.
Similarly, learning about various types of blood cancer can help individuals take preventive actions like practising safe sex and getting vaccinated to avoid certain viruses and infections. For multiple types of brain cancer, limiting exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins in the environment is another way to control risks.
Being proactive and informed can contribute to lowering the probability of cancer and promoting overall health.
Cancer diagnosis involves multiple stages and relies on a thorough evaluation process. Healthcare professionals collect the patient’s medical history to identify risk factors or genetic predispositions. They conduct a physical examination to assess symptoms and overall health. Further investigations may include lab tests and imaging. A biopsy may be necessary for a conclusive cancer diagnosis.
Lab tests can help indicate cancer by measuring specific bodily substances, such as blood, urine, and other fluid tests. Blood tests, mainly, are employed to detect and monitor cancer.
These tests encompass a complete blood count (CBC) to measure and count blood cells, tumour markers to detect substances released by cancer cells, blood protein tests to measure immunoglobulins released in response to cancer by the immune system, and circulating tumour cell tests to track tumour cells shed by cancerous tumours.
However, abnormal lab results are not a definite sign of cancer. It’s essential to note that lab results can vary among individuals due to factors like age, sex, race, medical history, and overall health. Normal lab results don’t rule out cancer, and abnormal results don’t necessarily mean you have a disease. Therefore, lab tests alone will not suffice for a conclusive cancer diagnosis.
Imaging tests include CT scans for locating and assessing cancerous tumours in organs and bones, X-rays for imaging bones and soft tissues safely, and PET scans to detect early cancer signs by showing organs and tissues in action.
Furthermore, imaging includes ultrasounds for revealing internal structures, MRI utilizing a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce images of organs and structures, and the nuclear imaging test MIGB for detecting cancer, including carcinoid tumours and neuroblastoma.
A biopsy is a medical procedure that collects cells, tissue, fluid, or growth to examine using a microscope. Needle, skin, bone marrow, and laparoscopic biopsies are standard biopsies. At times, excisional and incisional biopsies are done where a surgeon removes a tumour for further testing. Additionally, a frozen section biopsy, known as a perioperative biopsy, is done after another treatment.
Once a biopsy and other tests confirm the presence of cancer, additional tests may be conducted to assist the doctor in planning the appropriate treatment. These tests can determine whether the cancer has spread and its extent, crucial information for determining its stage.
Pathology studies are sometimes performed to assess the tumour’s grade, while tumour markers are studied to categorize the risk group. This information is essential in selecting the most suitable treatment approach.
Cancer progresses through four stages, determined by tumour size and location:
Though stages 1 to 4 are common, cancer also has Stage 0, the earliest phase. In this stage, the cancer is confined to its initial location and has not spread. Stage 0 is considered pre-cancerous and highly treatable by healthcare providers.
Healthcare providers offer a range of cancer treatments, often combining them as needed. Common treatments include:
Oncologists aim to provide effective treatment with minimizing side effects. However, cancer treatments have adverse reactions such as anaemia, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, nerve damage, mouth sores, and pain. Some of these side effects last for years. Palliative care helps alleviate and treat these symptoms.
An increasing number of individuals are experiencing successful cancer cures or prolonged survival with cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment before cancer spread generally lead to a positive outlook. Prognosis depends on various factors, including overall health, cancer type, stage, and treatment response. Healthcare providers offer the most accurate prognosis information tailored to each individual’s circumstances.
Cancer is a multifaceted disease that demands specific knowledge for practical understanding and treatment. Healthcare Asia can help you better understand this illness and address all your cancer-related questions. Contact Healthcare Asia now to gain comprehensive insights into different types of cancer and connect with skilled health specialists who can offer valuable assistance.
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