Cancer Prevention
Cancer is a term that describes many diseases that cause abnormal cells to grow and divide in the body. These cells often multiply quickly, creating clusters of cells called malignant (cancerous) tumors.However, not all tumors are malignant. Benign (non-cancerous) tumors can be removed, and in most instances, they do not return. Unlike malignant tumors, benign tumors do not invade other tissue and spread to other parts of the body. They typically are not life threatening.
On the other hand, malignant tumors can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells from the tumor can break away and enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system. This spread is called metastasis.
Cancer cells are complex, and cancer becomes more difficult to treat as it progresses. This is why it is so critical to try to prevent cancer, detect it early, and treat it properly.
Signs of Cancer
Sometimes cancer signals its presence with warning signs. The following CAUTION signs and symptoms from the American Cancer society don't always mean cancer, but it's important to discuss them with your doctor:
C: Change in bowel or bladder habits
A: A sore that doesn't heal
U: Unusual bleeding or discharge
T: Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere
I: Indigestion or difficulty swallowing
O: Obvious changes in a wart or mole
N: Nagging cough or hoarseness
Steps in Prevention
There are steps that you can take to prevent certain cancers. Making healthy changes in your lifestyle is an excellent start. It's also important to get the screening exams you need. It's possible for a mammogram to detect breast cancer at an early, treatable stage, and a colonoscopy can actually reduce your risk of colon cancer in the future by detecting precancerous polyps that your physician can remove.
Step 1: Making healthy changes in your lifestyle
Explore the links below to learn how you can help prevent cancer.
Step 2: Get the screening exams you need.