What is Cancer
What Is Cancer? What Causes It And How To Prevent It
Cancer is a term used to describe a common, sometimes deadly disease which can begin when something goes wrong within the normal process of cell regeneration in the body. Typically, when cells grow uncontrollably or abnormally, the body allows them to die and not regenerate. However, when something goes wrong, the body sometimes continues to make those abnormal cells which can grow out of control and cause malignant tumors, or even spread to other parts of the body.
Cancer can affect any cell in the human body, but most types of cancers start in cells that line organs and blood vessels or in cells found near them. Cancer cells can also invade the bloodstream and lymphatic system, so cancer that began in one location or organ can spread to other areas in the body. When cancer cells invade nearby tissues and organs, cancer can spread to other parts of the body. This spreading of the “primary” type of cancer to another part of the body is called metastasizing.
The most common causes (and enablers) of common, preventable types of cancer include smoking, alcohol consumption, being overweight, and exposure to certain chemicals. However, some people have a family history of cancer and are genetically more likely to develop it than others with no family history.
Preventing cancer
The best way to prevent cancer is to limit the risk factors that could cause it. You can lower your risk of getting cancer by eating healthy foods and exercising regularly.
The old saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” applies here – if you are able to avoid poor lifestyle choices and environmental exposures before they lead to cancer, you will have eliminated the need to cure it later on.
So, what next?
Remember that cancer is usually caused by a combination of factors. These factors include genetics, environment, and habits like smoking or drinking alcohol. It is preventable when people are informed about what causes it, how to reduce the risk of getting it, and when necessary, how to detect it early and manage treatment.
If you have cancer and want help managing the symptoms, or feel you are at-risk, please reach out to our team of experts at (301) 276-5670 or contact us online today.
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