12194 Cancer

Overview

Cancer is a group of diseases where some cells in the body grow out of control and may form lumps called tumours. It can affect many different parts of the body. Not all lumps are cancer, and not all cancers cause lumps. With earlier diagnosis and better treatments, many people live well with cancer or recover completely.

Yes. Cancer is common around the world, and most people will know someone affected by it. The risk of developing cancer increases with age, but it can happen at any time of life.

Anyone can get cancer. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and genders. Some types are more common in certain groups, but overall, cancer can touch any family or community.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Unexplained weight loss
• Extreme tiredness that doesn't get better with rest
• A new lump or swelling anywhere in the body
• Changes in a mole or a sore that doesn't heal
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits (like constipation, bleeding, or more frequent urination)
• Unexplained pain that lasts for more than a few weeks
• A cough or hoarseness that doesn't go away

Symptoms in children

• A lump or swelling that isn't caused by an injury
• Unexplained paleness or poor appetite
• Fever that keeps coming back without a clear reason
• Persistent bone pain or limping
• Changes in the eyes, like a white glow or crossed vision

Symptoms in older adults

• Similar symptoms to adults, but sometimes less obvious
• New or lasting confusion or memory changes without a clear cause
• Difficulty swallowing or ongoing indigestion
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
• Unexplained weight loss or appetite loss

Causes

Main causes

• Changes in the genetic material inside cells (DNA) that make them grow abnormally
• Some inherited gene changes that run in families
• Lifestyle and environmental factors that damage cells over time

Risk factors

• Tobacco smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Drinking alcohol beyond recommended limits
• Unhealthy diet high in processed foods and low in fruit and vegetables
• Lack of physical activity and being overweight or obese
• Exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning devices
• Certain infections, including human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B and C
• Exposure to air pollution or certain chemicals at work

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any new lump, especially if it is growing or feels hard
• Blood in urine, stool, or phlegm
• Changes in a mole, or a new skin spot that bleeds or itches
• Persistent difficulty swallowing or severe hoarseness
• Unexplained weight loss that continues for several weeks

Book a routine appointment if:

• Any symptom that lasts longer than three weeks, even if mild
• Bowel or bladder changes that persist
• Ongoing fatigue that doesn't improve despite rest
• Reviewing your family history of cancer to see if extra checks are recommended

Diagnosis

A doctor starts by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and examining your body. If they think it might be cancer, they will likely refer you to a specialist for further tests. Only a biopsy (taking a small sample of tissue) can usually confirm whether cancer is present.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for markers or signs of illness
• Imaging scans such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT, or MRI
• Biopsy – removing a tiny piece of tissue for examination under a microscope
• Endoscopy – a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside the body
• Genetic tests to look for specific changes in cells

What to expect at your appointment

You will likely be referred to a cancer specialist or a team of doctors. Waiting for results can feel stressful, but it gives your team the information they need to plan the best care. You may need more than one test, and results may take a few days to a few weeks.

Treatment

Treatment for cancer depends on where it started, how far it has spread, the type of cancer cells, and your general health. Your healthcare team will discuss options with you. Treatment aims to remove or destroy cancer cells, control the disease, or reduce symptoms. Many people receive a combination of treatments.

Self-care at home

• Follow your treatment plan and attend all appointments
• Rest when you need to, but keep moving gently when you can
• Ask for help with everyday tasks when you feel tired or unwell
• Keep a list of questions to ask your care team
• Lean on family and friends – you don't have to cope alone

Medical treatments

Treatments include surgery to remove a tumour, radiation therapy (using high-energy rays to destroy cells), chemotherapy (strong medicines that kill fast-growing cells), targeted therapy (medicines that focus on specific changes in cancer cells), immunotherapy (helping the immune system fight cancer), and hormone therapy for certain types. Your team will choose the best approaches for your situation, and they may also offer medicines to control pain or nausea.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often used when cancer is in one area and can be removed completely. For some types of cancer, surgery may be the first step. In others, it may be done after other treatments have shrunk the cancer or to repair damage.

Living with this condition

Living with cancer often means adjustments to your routine and treatment schedule. Try to stay involved in the care plan, ask questions, and report any new symptoms to your team. Be patient with your body – energy levels may go up and down.

Lifestyle tips

• If you smoke, consider stopping – your care team can help
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• Try to keep a regular sleep schedule
• Reduce stress through relaxation, breathing exercises, or hobbies you enjoy

Diet and exercise

Aim for a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Gentle exercise, like walking or stretching, can help improve energy and mood. If you have trouble eating or keeping food down, speak to a dietitian or your care team.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A cancer diagnosis can bring anxiety, sadness, or fear. These feelings are normal. Trying to handle them alone can be hard, so tell your team how you are feeling. They can connect you with talking support, counseling, or relaxation strategies.

Prevention

You cannot prevent every cancer, but many cases can be avoided by making healthy choices and getting recommended check-ups. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, protecting your skin from the sun, staying physically active, and eating a healthy diet all help reduce risk.

Vaccines

Some vaccines can lower the risk of cancers linked to infections. For example, the HPV vaccine helps prevent cervical and other cancers, and the hepatitis B vaccine protects against a virus that can lead to liver cancer. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

Screening tests can find cancer early, sometimes before symptoms appear. Many countries offer regular screening for breast, cervical, and bowel cancer. Ask your doctor what screening plan is recommended for your age and risk.

Complications

If left untreated

• The cancer may grow into nearby tissues and damage organs
• Cells can spread to other parts of the body (metastasis)
• Symptoms may become harder to manage, including pain, fatigue, or blockage of body channels

Long-term outlook

The outlook for cancer is much better today than in the past. Many people with cancer are cured, and many more live full and active lives for years after treatment. Advances are happening all the time, and your healthcare team will work with you to give you the best possible outcome.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.