Cancer

Cancer is a group of diseases in which cells grow uncontrollably and can invade nearby tissues. You might experience a range of symptoms, depending on the type and location of the cancer, including fatigue, fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, skin changes, or changes in bowel or bladder habits. Treatment options are varied and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy. People living with cancer benefit from prioritizing self-care, personalizing their nutrition, practising mindfulness, connecting with support groups, and getting regular checkups as requested by your doctor.

Common Questions & Answers

What are common types of cancer?

In the United States, the most common types of cancer include lung, breast, prostate, blood, and colorectal cancer. Most cancers are solid cancers that form tumors.

Cancer occurs due to abnormal cell division caused by gene changes. However, lifestyle factors like smoking, environmental exposures to toxins and radiation, malnutrition, and hormone therapy can increase your risk of cancer. Often, a cancer’s cause depends on the type.

Cancer prevention isn’t always possible. However, lifestyle changes like avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough exercise, regular screenings, and protecting yourself from sun and toxin exposure can reduce the risks. Catching cancer early can improve the disease’s outlook.

Doctors diagnose cancer through imaging tests like CT, MRI, and ultrasound scans, surgical or nonsurgical biopsies, and blood tests. Genetic testing can help doctors identify inherited types of cancers. These will vary depending on the type of cancer.

Many cancers respond to surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Doctors may also request targeted therapy, hormone therapy, or bone marrow transplants, depending on the cancer. Research continues to find new cancer treatments.

Everyday Health’s team of board-certified physicians and health professionals contribute to the creation and review of content, ensuring that the information is useful, up to date, and accurate.
EDITORIAL SOURCES
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources
  1. Cancer. Cleveland Clinic. August 19, 2024.

ALL CANCER ARTICLES

See All Articles