Cancer spreads throughout the body through a process known as metastasis, where cancer cells detach from their original site, travel via the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and establish new tumors elsewhere. Common sites for cancer metastases include the bones, liver, and lungs.
This LibGuide aims to raise awareness about cancer, particularly breast cancer, and provide essential information on prevention, early detection, and treatment options. It features a range of resources, including resources, and links to local and national support groups. You will also find academic research databases and up-to-date statistics on cancer trends. Explore our sections on risk factors, preventative care, and the latest advancements in cancer research. Early detection saves lives—let this guide be your go-to source for empowering yourself and your loved ones.
Cancer is not a single disease, but a group characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation, forming tumors or affecting blood cells. Normally, cells grow and divide in a controlled manner, but cancer disrupts this process when DNA is damaged, leading to mutations and potential transformation into cancerous cells. The disease develops over time as mutations accumulate, often taking years. Cancer progresses through stages, starting with precancerous cells and potentially advancing to metastatic cancer, spreading to distant organs or tissues. Understanding cancer involves grasping its complex nature, where genetic changes are crucial in its development and progression. Source
There are several types of cancers:
Carcinomas develop in the skin or tissues lining internal organs.
Sarcomas originate in tissues like bone, cartilage, muscle, or blood vessels.
Leukemias arise in the blood cells and bone marrow.
Lymphomas begin in the cells of the immune system and typically affect the lymphatic system.
Central nervous system cancers develop in the brain and spinal cord cells.
Early diagnosis involves detecting cancer in its earliest stages when symptoms first appear. Screening is designed to detect abnormalities indicating a particular cancer or pre-cancerous condition in asymptomatic individuals, ensuring they receive timely referrals for diagnosis and treatment. Source
1- In the United States, 40% of cancer cases are linked to factors that can be modified.
2-The substantial decrease in cancer mortality over the past thirty years is largely due to reduced smoking rates and increased cancer screening resulting from public health campaigns and policy initiatives.
3- Approximately 20% of cancer diagnoses in the U.S. are attributed to factors such as excessive body weight, unhealthy diets, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity.
4- Skin cancer incidences can often be prevented by shielding the skin from ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun and indoor tanning devices.
5- Almost all cases of cervical cancer, and many instances of head and neck and anal cancers, can be prevented through HPV vaccination. In contrast, a significant number of liver cancer cases can be averted through HBV vaccination. Source
Treatment options encompass surgery, cancer medications, and/or radiotherapy, either individually or in combination. A multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists assesses the optimal treatment approach based on factors such as tumor type, cancer stage, and clinical considerations. Patient preferences and the healthcare system's capabilities should also guide treatment decisions.
Palliative care plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families as part of comprehensive cancer care. Survivorship care involves a comprehensive plan to monitor for cancer recurrence, detect new cancers, manage the long-term effects of cancer and its treatments, and provide support services tailored to the needs of cancer survivors. (Source: WHO https://www.who.int/health-topics/cancer#tab=tab_3)
Cancer research plays a crucial role in reducing the profound impact of cancer on both individuals and economies. Through ongoing research, we deepen our understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying cancer initiation, growth, and spread within the body. This knowledge is pivotal in developing more precise and effective treatments, as well as strategies for prevention.
Advancements in prevention, early detection, screening, diagnosis, and treatment are often direct outcomes of research efforts spanning various scientific disciplines over decades. Collaborative efforts among researchers, clinicians, patients, and other stakeholders are essential to transform past discoveries into present innovations and future cures for cancer.
