Cancer

Overview

Cancer is a disease where some of the body's cells grow out of control and spread into other parts of the body. Normally, cells grow and divide in a controlled way. In cancer, this process goes wrong. There are many types of cancer, and they can start in almost any organ or tissue.

Yes. Cancer is very common. In the UK, one in two people will get some type of cancer during their lifetime.

Anyone can get cancer, at any age. But the risk increases with age. Most cases are in people over 50. Some types are more common in men, others in women, and some affect children, though childhood cancer is rare.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue that doesn't get better
• A new lump or swelling anywhere on the body
• Changes in a mole
• A persistent cough or hoarseness
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Persistent pain in one area

Symptoms in children

• An unusual lump or swelling
• Paleness and tiredness
• Frequent infections
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• A persistent pain in one area
• A limp or unexplained fever

Symptoms in older adults

• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Confusion or feeling foggy
• New falls or weakness
• Persistent pain or a change in daily function

Causes

Main causes

• Cancer happens when changes (mutations) in a cell's DNA cause it to grow out of control.
• These changes may be inherited, but more often they happen over time due to ageing and lifetime exposure to things like tobacco smoke, alcohol, UV radiation, and certain infections.
• Some people have a higher genetic risk due to family history.

Risk factors

• Tobacco smoke
• Excess body weight
• Unhealthy diet low in fruit and vegetables and high in processed meat
• Lack of physical activity
• Drinking alcohol
• Infection with certain viruses (for example HPV or hepatitis B)
• Family history of cancer
• Exposure to radiation or harmful chemicals at work

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• A new lump or a lump that is growing
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• A persistent cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in a mole

Book a routine appointment if:

• Unexplained fatigue
• Persistent pain
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits lasting longer than a few weeks
• A fever that doesn't go away

Diagnosis

A doctor will usually start with a conversation, a physical examination, and some blood or urine tests. If the doctor thinks cancer may be possible, they will arrange further tests, such as imaging scans, endoscopy, or a biopsy (taking a small sample of tissue).

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests
• Imaging scans (X-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI)
• Endoscopy
• Biopsy
• Tissue and cell samples

What to expect at your appointment

If you are referred for tests, you may wait a few days or weeks for the results. You will be told how to prepare and how long it will take. A specialist team will explain the results in a clear way and discuss next steps with you.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of cancer, its stage (how far it has grown), and your overall health. Many people have a combination of treatments. Care is planned by a team of specialists, and you will be involved in all decisions.

Self-care at home

• Do not smoke
• Eat a balanced diet
• Keep active at a level you can manage
• Rest when you need to
• Talk about your worries with someone you trust

Medical treatments

Common treatments include surgery to remove the cancer, chemotherapy (drugs that kill cancer cells), radiotherapy (high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells), immunotherapy (helps your immune system fight cancer), and hormone therapy. Targeted treatments are also used for some cancer types. Your doctor will explain which approach is right for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be used when the cancer is in one place and can be safely removed. Sometimes it is combined with other treatments before or after.

Living with this condition

Living with cancer can be challenging. You may need to adapt your routine, manage side effects, and attend check-ups. Many people continue to work, study, and enjoy life with support.

Lifestyle tips

• Try to keep a routine and stay connected with friends and family
• Do gentle physical activity such as walking
• Plan activities for good days and rest on bad days
• Ask for help at home or with practical tasks

Diet and exercise

Eating well helps you keep up strength. A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and protein is recommended. Gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, can improve mood and energy. Talk to your care team before starting a new exercise.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel frightened, anxious, angry, or low after a cancer diagnosis. Many people find it helps to talk to a counsellor, join a support group, or talk to family and friends. You do not have to cope alone.

Prevention

Not all cancers can be prevented, but you can lower your risk. Important steps include not smoking, keeping a healthy weight, being physically active, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding unnecessary radiation.

Vaccines

Vaccines that protect against hepatitis B and HPV can lower the risk of some cancers. Ask your health service if you are eligible.

Screening programmes

Screening tests can catch some cancers early, before symptoms appear. In many countries, there are national screening programmes for breast, bowel, and cervical cancer. Ask your doctor about what is right for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• If cancer is not treated, it can continue to grow and spread
• It may press on organs or bones, causing pain or damage
• It may affect the function of important organs
• It can cause severe weight loss and weakness

Long-term outlook

It is natural to worry, but the outlook for many cancers is far better than it used to be. Many people live long, active lives after treatment. Early detection and new treatments continue to improve outcomes. Your care team will talk to you honestly about your situation and what to expect.

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