cancer treatment
cancer treatment
Cancer is a medical condition characterized by the uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells, which have the potential to invade and destroy normal tissues. With over 100 different types, cancers are broadly categorized based on the cells or organs of origin. Major categories include Carcinoma (originating in tissues), Sarcoma (starting in connective or supportive tissues), Leukemia (originating in blood-forming tissues), Myeloma and Lymphoma (beginning in immune system cells), Germ cell tumors (derived from pluripotent cells), and Blastomas (arising from immature or embryonic tissue).
Causes of Cancer
Cancer is primarily caused by mutations in DNA within cells, disrupting normal growth and division instructions. Gene mutations can lead to rapid cell growth, failure to control cell growth, and mistakes in DNA repair. These mutations can be inherited or acquired throughout life due to factors like smoking, radiation, viruses, carcinogens, obesity, hormones, inflammation, and lack of exercise.
Symptoms of Cancer
General symptoms include fatigue, lumps or thickening under the skin, weight changes, skin alterations, changes in bowel or bladder habits, persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, indigestion, muscle or joint pain, and unexplained fevers or night sweats.
Stages of Cancer
0
Stage 0 signifies cancer in situ, treatable by surgical removal
1
Stage I indicates a small, localized tumor
2 and 3
Stages II and III involve larger tumors that may have spread to lymph nodes.
4
Stage IV, or advanced cancer, indicates spread to distant parts of the body
Cancer Treatment Options
Various treatments depend on cancer type, stage, and location. Common options include:
- surgery
- radiation therapy
- hormone therapy
- chemotherapy
- biological therapy (immunotherapy)
- stem cell transplant
Alternative Medicine Options
While not proven to cure cancer, alternative therapies
- Acupuncture
- hypnosis
- massage
- meditation
- relaxation techniques
- yoga
Cancer Recurrence
Cancer recurrence refers to the return of cancer after treatment due to residual cells. Regular check-ups, lifestyle changes, and ongoing monitoring are crucial post-treatment.
Cancer Treatment Aftercare
Aftercare involves strict adherence to healthy practices, including hydration, stress reduction, proper nutrition, and regular check-ups to address physical and psychosocial effects post-treatment.
At Unihealth, a synergistic team of healthcare specialists, each with expertise in diverse oncological disciplines, collaborates to optimize outcomes for cancer patients. This interdisciplinary strategy ensures patients receive comprehensive care from a variety of angles. The team collectively evaluates individual cases, promptly accesses diagnostic findings, streamlines scheduling and collaboratively devises tailored treatment plans for each patient undergoing cancer therapy.