<\/noscript><\/p>\n \nThere are many different kinds of cancer. Cancer can develop in almost any organ or tissue, such as the lung, colon, breast, skin, bones, or nerve tissue. \nThere are many causes of cancer, including: \nBenzene and other chemicals \nDrinking excess alcohol \nEnvironmental toxins, such as certain poisonous mushrooms and a type of poison that can grow on peanut plants (aflatoxins) \nExcessive sunlight exposure \nGenetic problems \nObesity \nRadiation \nViruses<\/p>\n
However, the cause of many cancers remains unknown. \nThe most common cause of cancer-related death is lung cancer. \nThe three most common cancers in men in the United States are: \nProstate cancer \nLung cancer \nColon cancer \nIn women in the United States, the three most common cancers are: \nBreast cancer \nColon cancer \nLung cancer \nSome cancers are more common in certain parts of the world. For example, in Japan, there are many cases of stomach cancer, but in the United States, this type of cancer is unusual. Differences in diet or environmental factors may play a role. \nSome other types of cancers include: \nBrain cancer \nCervical cancer \nHodgkin’s lymphoma \nKidney cancer \nLeukemia \nLiver cancer \nNon-Hodgkin’s lymphoma \nOvarian cancer \nSkin cancer \nTesticular cancer \nThyroid cancer \nUterine cancer<\/p>\n
Symptoms<\/strong> \nSymptoms of cancer depend on the type and location of the cancer. For example, lung cancer can cause coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Colon cancer often causes diarrhea, constipation, and blood in the stool. \nSome cancers may not have any symptoms at all. In certain cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, symptoms often do not start until the disease has reached an advanced stage. \nThe following symptoms can occur with most cancers: \nChills \nFatigue \nFever \nLoss of appetite \nMalaise \nNight sweats \nWeight loss \nBack to TopExams and Tests \nLike symptoms, the signs of cancer vary based on the type and location of the tumor. Common tests include the following: \nBiopsy of the tumor \nBlood tests (which look for chemicals such as tumor markers) \nBone marrow biopsy (for lymphoma or leukemia) \nChest x-ray \nComplete blood count (CBC) \nCT scan \nLiver function tests \nMRI scan \nMost cancers are diagnosed by biopsy. Depending on the location of the tumor, the biopsy may be a simple procedure or a serious operation. Most patients with cancer have CT scans to determine the exact location and size of the tumor or tumors. \nA cancer diagnosis is difficult to cope with. It is important, however, that you discuss the type, size, and location of the cancer with your doctor when you are diagnosed. You also will want to ask about treatment options, along with their benefits and risks. \nIt’s a good idea to have someone with you at the doctor’s office to help you get through the diagnosis. If you have trouble asking questions after hearing about your diagnosis, the person you bring with you can ask them for you.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Treatment<\/strong> \nTreatment varies based on the type of cancer and its stage. The stage of a cancer refers to how much it has grown and whether the tumor has spread from its original location. \nIf the cancer is confined to one location and has not spread, the most common treatment approach is surgery to cure the cancer. This is often the case with skin cancers, as well as cancers of the lung, breast, and colon. \nIf the tumor has spread to local lymph nodes only, sometimes these can be removed. \nIf surgery cannot remove all of the cancer, the options for treatment include radiation, chemotherapy, or both. Some cancers require a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. \nLymphoma, or cancer of the lymph glands, is rarely treated with surgery. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are most often used to treat lymphoma. \nAlthough treatment for cancer can be difficult, there are many ways to keep up your strength. \nIf you have radiation treatment, know that: \nRadiation treatment is painless. \nTreatment is usually scheduled every weekday. \nYou should allow 30 minutes for each treatment session, although the treatment itself usually takes only a few minutes. \nYou should get plenty of rest and eat a well-balanced diet during the course of your radiation therapy. \nSkin in the treated area may become sensitive and easily irritated. \nSide effects of radiation treatment are usually temporary. They vary depending on the area of the body that is being treated. \nIf you are going through chemotherapy, you should eat right. Chemotherapy causes your immune system to weaken, so you should avoid people with colds or the flu. You should also get plenty of rest, and don’t feel as though you have to accomplish tasks all at once. \nIt will help you to talk with family, friends, or a support group about your feelings. Work with your health care providers throughout your treatment. Helping yourself can make you feel more in control.<\/p>\nSupport Groups<\/strong> \nThe diagnosis and treatment of cancer often causes a lot of anxiety and can affect a person’s entire life. There are many resources for cancer patients. \nSee: Cancer resources<\/p>\nOutlook (Prognosis)<\/strong> \nThe outlook depends on the type of cancer and the stage of the cancer when diagnosed. \nSome cancers can be cured. Other cancers that are not curable can still be treated effectively. Some patients can live for many years with cancer. Other tumors are quickly life threatening. \nBack to TopPossible Complications \nComplications depend on the type and stage of cancer. The cancer may spread. \nBack to TopWhen to Contact a Medical Professional \nContact your health care provider if you develop symptoms of cancer.<\/p>\nPrevention<\/strong> \nYou can reduce the risk of getting a cancerous (malignant) tumor by: \nEating a healthy diet \nExercising regularly \nLimiting alcohol \nMaintaining a healthy weight \nMinimizing your exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals \nNot smoking or chewing tobacco \nReducing sun exposure, especially if you burn easily \nCancer screenings, such as mammography and breast examination for breast cancer and colonoscopy for colon cancer, may help catch these cancers at their early stages when they are most treatable. Some people at high risk for developing certain cancers can take medication to reduce their risk.<\/p>\n