Human Nightmare: The Worst Killer Cancers
Most of the diseases are caused by germs, and yet some of them are caused by a deadly invader- CANCER. When mutation occurs in DNA cells, the cancerous cells begin to multiply in an astonishing rate, and meanwhile, the mutated DNA continues to grow into an unexpected benign cluster to form a new generation of cancer. Later, the cancerous cells circulate around lymphatic or/ and blood vessels causing human sick. There begins a nightmare war!
This is a continual piece of my previous article entitled symptoms of four dangerous cancers.
Cancer is the worst and deadliest disease that hits over millions of people worldwide, and about 1 in 8 people will ultimately die on the course of cancer. It’s the most widespread disease that responsible for approximately 13% of all human deaths.
There are over 200 types of cancers and they’re all referred to a group of ailments having the similar characteristics. The cells in those who’ve cancer always displayed malignant growths, tumors, and/or abnormal cells that will finally spread to the surrounding cells, tissues or organs, and at the end, the cancer invades other areas in the body causing deaths. Cancer can either be the outcome of plain old genetic abnormalities, mutated cells, and prolonged exposure/consumption of certain drugs/carcinogens/any chemical substances.
Under a normal condition, our body will produce 100 to 200 cancerous cells every day. When we reach 40 years old, the production of cancerous cells will increase from 3,000 to 5,000 cells. When our immune system does not function well or weaken, these 100 to 200 cancerous cells will gradually grow into 1,000, 2000……4000 cells. And later, these cancerous cells will soon develop into 10000 to 20000 cells, and then from 100000 to 200000 cells. We will not aware of the growth of cancerous cells, even its figure reaches 1000000 cells. This is because the size of 1000000 cells is just like the size of a needle head. Next, the cancerous cells will continuously increase its colony to 5000000, 10000000, one billion and five billion cells. The growth of cancerous cells is like a baby whereby it can grow quickly like an adult. When one day you notice that there is a lump from part of your body, you may be in critical condition (quoted from my previous article entitled facts about cancerous cells and immune system).
Bladder Cancer
Worldwide, the bladder cancer is the tenth most common cause of cancer death, accounting for about 90% of cancers of the urinary tract (ureters, bladder, urethra, renal pelvis). In 2002, approximately 350,000 cases of bladder cancer were reported worldwide, and each year, approximately 356,600 cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed.
Types of cancers: (1) Adenocarcinoma: a rare form of cancer that forms in mucus secretion glands within the bladder; (2) Transitional cell carcinoma: the most common form of bladder cancer, in which cancerous cells are formed inside the bladder; and the cells contract if the bladder is empty but expand when it’s full. The pain is beyond the words; and (3) Squamous cell carcinoma: the most common cancer in the third world countries but less common in the first world countries. This is due to that areas of the third world countries are prone to parasitic infections, which are known to cause squamous cell carcinoma in the bladder. This type of cancer can also appear in the bladder in response to some form of irritant. Over time, these abnormal cells can end up as cancerous cell that trigger human’s health.
The bladder is a hollow/ balloon-shaped organ located in the pelvic cavity/ lower part of the abdomen, and it helps to store urine [liquid waste produced by kidneys] until it’s passed through ureters out of the body. The bladder cancer occurs when malignant growths/ cancerous cells formed within the tissues of the urinary bladder. Its occurrence is more prevalence in males than females, almost twice times than females.
Possible causes: Smoking (due to cigar, cigarette or pipe), parasitic infection (such as Schistosoma Haematobium), age (people older than 70), recurrent urinary stones or urinary tract infections (may cause chronic bladder inflammation), occupational exposure to certain chemicals (such as paint, textiles, hair dye, petrol, chemical dyes, aniline-based dyes and other chemicals), carcinogens, cancer-causing agents or antineoplastic drugs (used in chemotherapy) in the workplace; presence of cancer-causing agents or carcinogens in the urine, long-term exposure of environmental tobacco smoke, exposure to radiation or exposure to second-hand smoke (those who live with person who smokes), high intake in fat, fried meats or high saturated diet; or being male, white or older; side effects of certain drugs used in treatment (such as cyslophosfamide) or chemotherapy; frequent use of certain weight-loss formulas (such as Aristolochia Fangchi); or a family history of bladder cancer.
Possible symptoms: Pain while urinating (dysuria), frequent urination or feeling a strong urge to urinate but without result, lower back or abdominal pain, tiredness or weakness, loss of weight and appetite, bloody urine/hematuria (the color can be a bit rusty to bright/deep red).
Note: These symptoms won’t guarantee you from getting bladder cancer. Factors like benign tumors, bladder stone (read more on bladder stone-somewhat unusual: weirdest stones formation in human body), infections or other underlying health consequences may also contribute to these symptoms. Therefore, you’re advised to see a doctor for further diagnosis.
Prevention: Be careful while handling chemicals and contaminated water sources (particularly when higher level of arsenic is found in water), seek immediate medical attention when you observe blood in urine, take plenty fruits and vegetables (preferably organic), quit smoking, take appropriate amount of cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, cabbage; preferably organic) as it helps to cut the risk of bladder cancer (prior to this, please consult your doctor because certain chronic diseases are prohibited to eat cabbage or broccoli or any cruciferous vegetables).
Cervical Cancer
In 2002, approximately 200,000 women worldwide were diagnosed with cervical cancer, which was about 4% of all the cancers that occurred among the females. Worldwide, it’s ranked as the thirteenth most common cause of cancer death. Around three quarter of sufferers under survive for at least five years after diagnosis. At the chronic stage, cervical cancer can cause death/ mortality. Approximately 50% of cervical cases are diagnosed in females who’re aged 35 and 55 each year.
Cervical cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled, rapid growth of malignant/abnormal/ severe changes in the cells of the cervix (particularly when one is infected with high-risk types of HPV), and the cervix is located in the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. At the early stage, cervical cancer is highly curable, while at the progressing/ chronic stage, treatment is less effective since the abnormal cervical cells may have changed into cancerous cells.
Types of cancers: Adenocarcinoma cervical cancer and Squamous cell/ Epidermoid cervical cancer.
Note: Cervical cancer can progress from stage 0 to stage 4. In (1) stage 0/ carcinoma in situ: cancerous cells in the cervix haven’t started to grow or spread deep into the tissues of the cervix. It’s not considered as an invasive cancer; (2) stage 1A1, growth has grown to less than 3mm into the tissues of the cervix, which can only be seen under a microscope, while in stage 1A2, the cancerous cells have grown between 3 and 5mm into the tissues of the cervix, but the cancerous cells are less than 7mm wide. In stage 1B1, the cancerous cells have grown into a size of less than 4cm into the tissues of the cervix, but in stage 1B2, the cancerous cells are observed to be larger than 4cm; (3) stage 2a, the cancerous cells have spread to the top of the vagina, and in stage 2b, the cancerous cells have spread down into the tissues around the cervix. Both stages significantly show the cancerous cells have begun to spread outside the neck of the womb into the neighboring tissues; (4) stage 3: the cancerous cells may have grown deep down into the lower part of the vagina and/or both the ureters, and have spread away from the area surrounding the cervix and via the pelvis; and (5) stage 4a, the cancerous cells have spread to surrounding organs (such as rectum, bladder), while in stage 4b, the cancerous cells have spread to other organs (such as lungs). At this advanced cervical cancer stage, the cancerous cells have spread rapidly to other body organs outside the womb and cervix.
Possible causes: Use of oral contraceptive (OC), smoking or history of smoking; obesity (particularly at the abdominal part), co-infection with herpes simplex virus-2/ chlamydia trachomatis, multiple life-time partners, family history of cervical tumor, early age at first intercourse, long duration of sexual relationship, impair immune system (due to human immunodeficiency virus, HIV), human papillomavirus infection (HPV, a sexually transmitted infection and its incident rate is highly due to HPV infection of types 16 and/ or 18), the use of birth control pills (for 5 years or more).
Possible symptoms: Loss of weight, anemia (due to abnormal vaginal bleeding), ongoing/ occasional pain in the back, leg, or pelvic; urinary infections/ problems (caused by blockage of a ureter or kidney), unexplainable/ abnormal change in the menstrual cycle, feeling pain or pelvic pain while doing sexual intercourse; vaginal bleeding between periods, after menopause or after intercourse; abnormal/ strange vaginal discharge (may contain mucus, and sometimes the mixture of blood and mucus, accompanied by unbearable/ foul odor), leakage of fecal content or urine into the vagina (due to an abnormal opening called fistula that may have developed between the bladder and the vaginal or rectum), bleeding while contacting with the cervix (this may happen during insertion of a diaphragm, or during sexual intercourse).
Note: Abnormal cervical cell changes rarely portray signs/ symptoms or produce no symptoms at the early stage of cervical cancer. Therefore, females are advised to do Pap test screening to detect the presence of cervical cancer.
Prevention: Quit smoking, avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, have a regular Pap test screening (this test is essential to diagnose any cervical cell abnormalities), get an HPV vaccine (to protect yourself against HPV infection, particularly the high risk type of HPV), limit your risk of getting sexually transmitted disease/STD, avoid sexual contact (if you’ve symptoms of an STD or any intimate sexual contact with those who have diagnosed with STD), find out if your partner has any STD related disease, avoid having multiple sex partners at a time.
For more details on prevention against STD diseases such as HPV, kindly visit my previous article entitled why HPV is said to be more dangerous and threatening than SARs?
Pancreatic (pancreas) Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is the thirteenth most common cause of cancer death in the world. In 2002, over 230,000 cases of pancreatic cancer were diagnosed, which occupied 2% of all the cancers. Approximately 3% of pancreatic cancer sufferers survive for 5 years or more. It’s the most common cancer in males than females. Since it’s a “silent disease” which shows no signs and symptoms and thus it’s seldom detected in its early stage, making it a leading cause of cancer death. By the time it’s detected in an advanced stage, the cancerous cells are more likely to have spread to other parts of the body and thus surgical removal is no longer possible to handle it.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most chronic types of cancers. It occurs when either cancerous cells or malignant cells are formed within the tissues of the pancreas (a thin pear shaped like gland, about 6 inches long, lying horizontally behind the lower part of the stomach and in front of the spine). Approximately 94% of pancreatic cancers start in exocrine cells.
Note: Pancreatic cancer can progress from stage 0 to stage 4. In (1) stage 0/ carcinoma in situ: cancerous cells are seen in the lining of the pancreas. It’s not considered as an invasive cancer; (2) stage 1A, the tumor has grown to less than 2cm within the tissues of the pancreas, while in stage 1B, the tumor has grown to larger than 2cm within the tissues of the pancreas; (3) stage 2A, the cancerous cells have spread to nearby organs and tissues, while in stage 2B, the cancerous cells have not only spread to nearby organs and tissues but may also have spread to lymph nodes near the pancreas; (4) stage 3: the cancerous cells may have spread to nearby lymph nodes or/ and to the major blood vessels; and (5) stage 4, the cancerous cells of any sizes have spread to surrounding organs (such as lung, liver, peritoneal cavity) and tissues near the pancreas or to lymph nodes.
Possible causes: Smoking (pancreatic cancer is twice more than non-smoker), age (those who’re at the age group 65 to 79 are at the higher risk of pancreatic cancer), long-term exposure to certain chemicals (gasoline, insecticide) or environmental chemical exposure; obesity, chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), genetic disorders/hereditary predisposition (nonpolyposis colon cancer, familial breast cancer which is associated with the BRCA2 gene, hereditary pancreatitis, familial adenomatous polyposis), increased body mass index (BMI), a family history of pancreatic cancer, black race, gallstones or diabetes (particularly those with type I or II diabetes); non-vegetarian (with higher intake of fat and/or meat), medical conditions (such as a chronic liver disease/cirrhosis, diabetes), a history record of surgery (particularly in the upper digestive tract or area surrounding digestive tract).
Possible symptoms: vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, malnutrition, itching, digestive problem, abdominal pain in the upper part of the abdomen (the pain may sometimes radiate to the upper back or the middle of the abdomen), discomfort feeling in abdomen, fatigue, glucose intolerance, yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes/ jaundice (it’s caused by the tumor that blocks the common bile duct and bile cannot pass through the digestive system) or darker colored urine (due to the accumulation of bile pigment called bilirubin).
Note: The onset of pancreatic cancer doesn’t always cause you any symptoms until it progresses to a chronic stage. Due to these nonspecific symptoms, the treatment and diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is often delayed. At the time of diagnosis, 50% of the patients may have Jaundice developed. Usually, pancreatic cancer patients may have too much insulin produced by the pancreas in their bodies, which may have caused them muscle spasms, chills, diarrhea, weakness or dizziness. When symptoms stated herein appear, please don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can always save life.
Prevention: Quit smoking, exercise regularly (at least twice a week, with about 30 minutes for each physical section), eat healthy diets (add colorful fruits, vegetables and whole grains, preferably organic, into your daily diet), and maintain a healthy weight (overweight has been clinically proven to be at greater risk of getting pancreatic cancer).
Breast Cancer
In women, breast cancer is the fifth most seen common type of cancer, and about 8 in 10 women aged 50 and over are diagnosed with breast cancer. In the world in 2002 more than 115 million cases of breast cancer were diagnose, which were around 23% in all females related cancers, and 11% of all the cancers. Each year, it’s estimated that over a million women are diagnosed with breast cancer, which cause more than 10,000 deaths. Worldwide, it’s ranked as the forth most common cause of cancer death, that’s around 14% of the total cancer deaths. It’s regarded as the second most common cause of death in women after lung cancer.
Breast cancer is one of the most chronic types of cancers among the females, but it can also occur in males. It occurs when either cancerous cells or malignant growths are formed within the tissues of the breast.
Types of cancers: Lobular carcinoma (begins in the lobules or lobes, and is more often seen in both breasts) and Ductal carcinoma (begins in the cells of the ducts and it’s the most common breast cancer seen in females).
Note: Breast cancer can progress from stage 0 to stage 4. In (1) stage 0/ carcinoma in situ: (a) Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): precancerous cells are seen in the lining of a breast duct. It’s not considered as an invasive cancer since the abnormal cells have not yet spread to other tissues outside the breast, and (b) Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS): abnormal cells are observed in the lobules of the breast. At this stage, the condition is rarely developed into invasive cancer; (2) stage 1, the tumor has grown to 2cm or smaller but has not yet spread outside the breast; (3) stage 2: (a) IIA: cancerous cells are seen in the lymph nodes under the arm (axillary lymph nodes) even though no tumor is observed, or the tumor may have grown to less than 2cm and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes, or in other condition, the tumor may have grown to larger than 2cm but less than 5cm and has not spread to the axillary lymph nodes; (b) IIB: the tumor may either have grown to (i) larger than 2cm but less than 5cm and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes or (ii) larger than 5cm but has not spread to the axillary lymph nodes; (4) stage 3: (a) IIIA: cancerous cells are seen in the lymph nodes under the arm even though no tumor is observed, or the tumor may have grown to less than 5cm and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes, or the tumor may have grown to larger than 5cm and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes; (b) IIIB: the cancerous cells of any sizes may have spread to axillary lymph nodes or within the breast, or the abnormal cells may have spread to the tissues lining the breast, which may include ribs and muscles in the chest, chest wall or the skin of the chest wall; (c) IIIC: the cancerous cells have spread to lymph nodes either beneath or above the collarbones, and near the neck on the same side of the body, and in certain cases, the cancerous cells may have spread to lymph nodes under the arm or the breast to the tissues of the breast; and (5) stage 4, the cancerous cells of any sizes have spread to surrounding organs (such as lungs, liver, bones, brain) and perhaps the nearby tissues.
Possible causes: Obesity, prolonged use (5 years or more) of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), frequent use of oral contraceptives, long-term exposure to radiation or cancer-causing chemicals (such as charred red meats/ barbecue, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), defects in either gene of breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) or breast cancer gene 2 (BRCA2), those with first-degree relatives diagnosed with breast cancer (or family record of breast cancer), inherited mutations (particularly in the ataxia-telangiectasia), a female with a mom, daughter or sister diagnosed with breast cancer, or moderate amount of alcohol (or any alcoholic drinks) consumption.
Possible symptoms: Rarely seen blood-stained comes out from the rash or nipple around the nipple/ a spontaneous and abnormal bloody discharge from the nipple, indentation or retraction of the nipple, change in shape, contour or size of the breast, presence of breast lumps (though some of them may be benign), nipple inversion, presence of lump or swelling in the armpit, dimpling of breast skin, and abnormal change in the nipple or breast (such as pitting/ redness of the skin over the breast, resembling the skin of the orange; any indentation or flattening over the breast).
Note: Mammography is always used to detect the presence of breast cancer before any symptoms are noted. In the first stage, no lymph nodes are identified to be affected, but tumor up to 2cm may be noticed. Tumor then grows in the range of 2 to 5 cm, and/ or lymph nodes are seen to affect armpit in the second stage. In stage 3, the tumor can grow to 5cm or more and lymph nodes in armpit are affected. Progressing to stage 4, the tumor may develop to any size, lymph nodes significantly affect the armpit, and the cancerous cells start to spread to other parts of the body.
Most of the breast cancer appear in humans (males or females) aren’t always cancerous growths as they may appear as thickening substances or lumps in the breast, and thus they’re less painful or painless. Nevertheless, you’re advised to consult with a doctor as their presence is always nuisance and can cause discomfort feeling.
Prevention: Avoid foods/things that may cause cancer, healthy eating habits and lifestyle, reduce your chances from being exposed to a heavily polluted environment, reduce the intake of red meat or charred meat, go for an early diagnosis when a lump or a mass is felt in the nipple or breast/ or any symptoms stated herein is detected, treatment or screening should be prompted for those who have the abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene or a family history of breast cancer.
Stomach Cancer/ Gastric Cancer
Stomach cancer is the most common type of cancer ranked the forth worldwide. More than 900,000 cases of stomach cancer were reported in 2002. The rates in males occupy two third of all types of cancers, and it’s seen to be more prevalence in Eastern Asia than Western and Northern Africa. Stomach cancer is also the second most common cause of cancer death, which accounts for about 3% of all cancer deaths. The higher percentage of 94% is seen among people aged 50 and over who are diagnosed with new cases of stomach cancer each year.
Types of cancers: (1) Adenocarcinomas: the most common type of stomach cancer which starts in the glandular tissue lining the stomach; (2) Sarcomas: a type of stomach cancer which starts in the connective tissues (such as fat, blood vessels, or muscle) and (3) Lymphomas: a type of stomach cancer which starts in the lymphatic system.
Initially, the stomach (a muscular sac that lies between the small intestine and the esophagus) cancer can grow in the mucosa (the innermost layer), or growth of cancerous cells may have developed in the lining and wall of the stomach. In the second case, the stomach cells can form a tumor when the cancerous/malignant stomach cells start to grow out of control. The tumor may ultimately grow through the stomach’s wall, spread along the stomach wall or spread to other neighboring organs and causing cells being shed off into lymphatic system or in the bloodstream.
Possible causes: Smoking, excessive salt consumption, family history of stomach cancer, Helicobacter pylori (bacteria that can cause infection within the lining of the stomach and have been linked to most cases of stomach cancer, particularly duodenal ulcers and gastric in the stomach) infection, alcohol, medical conditions (Barrett’s esophagus, gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GORD), those who undergo surgery to correct acid reflux or those with HIV/AIDS or who have undergone an organ transplant, pernicious anemia, non-melanoma skin cancer, bowel cancer and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma), higher BMI (Body Mass Index), regular use of aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) drugs.
Possible symptoms: (1) early stage: loss of appetite, weakness or feeling tired, indigestion, heartburn, stomach discomfort, nausea, and a bloated feeling after eating; (2) progressing stage (particularly when the cancerous cells are larger): stomach/ abdominal pain, vomiting and nausea (may or may not be accompanied with blood), a bloated feeling after eating, loss of appetite, swelling of the abdomen (caused by the accumulation of cancerous cells or/ and fluid), weakness or feeling tired, indigestion, heartburn, discomfort feeling in the part of abdomen (often above the navel), unexplainable/ unintended weight loss, blood in feces, ulcer-type symptoms, and a sense of fullness in the upper abdomen/ below the chest bone (even after eating a small meal); and (3) advance stage: weight loss, stomach/ abdominal pain (moderate to severe pain), vomiting, and blood in the feces.
Note: At the early stage, cancerous cells can grow within the stomach without causing any signs and symptoms. Like most cancers, stomach cancer takes years to grow, and this explains why stomach cancer is difficult to diagnose in its early stage. Very often, cancerous cells can remain longer in the stomach before it causes any significant symptoms. If left ignored, the cancerous cells can grow deeper and infect the other layers of stomach, stomach wall to nearby lymph nodes or other surrounding organs. When it goes deeper, the chances of a cure are always impossible. Therefore, when you’ve symptoms listed herein, you’re prompted to consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis can always successfully remove the entire tumor from the stomach, making a complete recovery possible.
Prevention: Eat healthy diets (add colorful fruits and vegetables, preferably organic, into your daily diet), quit smoking, reduce the intake of smoked foods, cut off foods that are high in salt, artificial coloring and fat, consult your doctor for a further advice (particularly when you’ve been diagnosed with gastritis, stomach polyps or anemia).
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world with 1.4 million people diagnosed in 2002. Each year, over 30,000 people die from lung cancer, particularly those who’re aged 65 or over. Only 6% of lung cancer patients can survive up to 5 years or more after diagnosis. Approximately two-thirds of males are diagnosed with the increased rates of lung cancer. Smoking is the greatest risk factor for lung cancer as it accounts for approximately 94% of the cases.
Lung cancer has been regarded as the leading cause of cancer deaths since it claims more lives than breast, colon, prostate and lymph cancer worldwide each year. It occurs when the rapid growth of abnormal cells occupy the tissues of the lung. However, it can also appear anywhere within the lungs and may affect any part of the respiratory system.
Types of cancers: (1) Small cell lung cancer: more prevalence in smokers and the cancerous cells always spread early in the course of the illness; (2) Non-small cell lung cancer: common type of lung cancer, and it can be grouped into (a) Squamous cell carcinoma: cancerous cells are observed in cells lining the airways and this type of cancer is more common in males; (b) Adenocarcinoma: cancerous cells are usually seen in the mucous-producing cells of the lung, and its occurrence is more common in females or in people who were exposed to secondhand smoke or those who have never smoked; (c) Bronchoaveolar carcinoma: uncommon type of lung cancer and its occurrence is more prevalence in smokers than non-smokers; and (d) Large cell carcinoma: cancerous cells is seen originating from the peripheral part of the lungs.
Possible causes: Smoking (cigarette, pipe or tobacco), long-term exposure to air pollutants (such as nitrogen oxides, diesel exhaust, hydrocarbons, radon-a naturally occurring gas), industrial carcinogens (such as silica, polycyclic aromatic, non-ferrous metals, asbestos), spread of cancerous cells (such as from bone, thyroid, kidney, testicle, prostate, colon, breast or other organs) to the lungs, passive smoke (for those who don’t smoke) or those who live with person who smokes.
Possible symptoms: recurring bronchitis/ repeated bouts of pneumonia, recurring respiratory infections, feeling discomfort/ difficulty while swallowing, poor or no appetite, coughing blood out (often in bloody mucus or small amount of blood), unexplainable weight loss, fatigue, weakness, new onset of wheezing, shortness of breath, hoarseness (usually lasts 2 weeks or more), swelling face and neck, coughing hardly go away (particularly for smokers who’ve a chronic cough/ “smoker’s cough” that worsens, and there’s an abnormal change on how often they cough/ how severe they cough/ cough up blood), feeling pain in parts of the body (particularly at the back, shoulder or/ and chest that doesn’t go away but gets worsen with deep breathing), or clubbing toes and fingers (in which the nails appear bulging out).
Note: The onset of lung cancer doesn’t always cause you any symptoms until it progresses to a chronic/ advanced stage. Due to these nonspecific symptoms, the treatment and diagnosis of lung cancer is often delayed. A shortness of breath sometimes is mistaken for a respiratory ailment but it may be a symptom of lung cancer. Well, coughing is the most common symptom of lung cancer and it occurs when a tumor/ growth within the lung tissues block the passage of air or irritate the lining of the airways. Eventually, the cancerous cells in the lung can spread to other parts of the body and may cause headache or bone pain if left ignore. Therefore, when symptoms occur as stated herein, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can always save life.
Prevention: Quit smoking, eat healthy diets (add colorful fruits, vegetables and whole grains, preferably organic, into your daily diet), take appropriate amount of carrot (has been clinically proven to prevent against cancer), reduce exposure to environmental toxins (such as secondhand smoke, radon, asbestos), or consult your doctor for an effective prevention method.
Prostate Cancer
Worldwide, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer and the sixth most common cause of cancer death in males, after lung cancer. Its incidence rates have increased in an ascending order. In 2002, 680,000 cases of prostate cancer were reported, and each year, over 670,000 males are diagnosed with prostate cancer. Approximately 70% of prostate cancer incidence rates are diagnosed in males aged over 70 years.
Prostate (is a male reproductive tract) gland is about a size of a walnut that produces seminal fluid, and the fluid aids in transporting and nourishing sperm, making part of the fluid for semen. Prostate cancer is detected when abnormal growth of cells growing within a male’s prostate gland.
Types of cancers: (1) Recurrent prostate cancer: recurring cancer after the last treatment as it can reappear near the prostate, within the prostate, or in other parts of the body (especially in the bones); (2) Locally advanced prostate cancer: cancerous cells that have grown into nearby tissues via the outer rim of the prostate; and (3) Metastatic prostate cancer: cancerous cells have spread or metastasized into the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
Pancreatic cancer can progress from stage 1 to stage 4. In (1) stage 1: cancerous cells are seen to be smaller in size (the presence of cancer is detected when a rectal examination is done) and only grow within the prostate gland; (2) stage 2: cancerous cells are seen growing within the prostate gland, but they’re larger in size and a hard area/ a lump can be felt. These abnormal growths are detected during a rectal examination; (3) stage 3: cancerous cells have broken via the covering of the prostate, and at this stage, the cancerous cells may have spread to the seminal vesicle or the neck of the bladder; and (4) stage 4: cancerous cells may have spread (metastasize) to another organs and tissues of the body, especially the lymph nodes and bones.
Possible causes: Age (higher risk for those who’re aged 60 and over), ethnicity (black or West African men, African-American or African-Caribbean are at highest risk of getting prostate cancer), heredity (in a case that several females in the family have diagnosed with breast cancer [particularly those aged less than 40 years old], the presence of inherited faulty gene may increase the risk of the males in that family getting prostate cancer), high fat diet, male with one or more first-degree relatives (such as son, brother or father) diagnosed with prostate cancer/ who have had prostate cancer.
Possible symptoms: Pain while urinating (dysuria), intermittent urine flow, frequent urination or feeling a strong urge to urinate (but sometimes without result or being unable to urinate at all), loss of weight and appetite, persistent bone pain, dribbling and weak urine flow, painful ejaculation, feeling pain in parts of body (particularly in the hips, upper thighs, lower back or in the lower pelvic area), presence of blood in the semen (called hemaspermia/hematospermia, this condition is seen in the advance stage of prostate cancer), difficulty starting urination (hesitancy), a sense of bladder doesn’t empty at all, bloody urine/hematuria (the color can be a bit rusty to bright/deep red), or increased frequency of urination at night (nocturia).
Note: The onset of prostate cancer doesn’t always cause you any symptoms and that’s why the treatment and diagnosis is often delayed. It’s often detected when it has spread beyond the prostate. Nevertheless, in certain cases, prostate cancer does show you symptoms as stated herein. In the advance stage, you’ll feel pain in bone (often in the bones of the spine/ vertebrae), and when cancerous cells have spread to other bones, pain may also feel in ribs or pelvis. In a chronic situation, prostate cancer can affect spine by compressing the spinal cord, in which it leads to fecal incontinence, leg weakness and/ or urinary incontinence. Prostate cancer also causes problems during sexual intercourse, and this happens when the male feels difficulty achieving erection or may experience painful ejaculation. Therefore, when symptoms occur as stated herein, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can always save life.
Prevention: Eat healthy diets (add colorful fruits, vegetables and whole grains, preferably organic, into your daily diet), reduce the intake of foods that high in fat (especially animal fat), take appropriate amount of yellow-orange, cruciferous vegetables, legumes and lycopene rich foods (linked with a lower risk of getting prostate cancer).
Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is the fifteenth most common cancer diagnosed in the world. In 2002, about 200,000 cases of kidney cancer were recorded, making its incidence rate about 6% of all cancers. Over 5,000 people in the world are diagnosed with kidney cancer each year. Kidney cancer affects more males than females, as smoking rate is normally higher in men than women. Smoking is always linked with the increased occurrence of kidney cancer.
The most common form of kidney cancer which is diagnosed among adults is Renal cell cancer, while Transitional cell cancer/carcinoma is a less common type of kidney cancer which affects the renal pelvis. However, in a real situation, several types of cancers can be developed within the kidney. Over time, when cancerous cells in kidney grow, they’ll start to invade tissues/ organs surrounding kidney (such as pancreas, colon, liver), and the scariest thing about these cancerous cells are that they’ll break away from the primary (original) tumor and metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body. Therefore, it’s not surprising when one found cancerous cells in the lymph nodes as they’ll grow wildly like wildfire in the human body. Later, kidney cancer may spread and/or form new tumors particularly in the lungs or bones.
Possible causes: Age (higher risk for those who’re aged 60 and over), obesity (BMI over 30), inherited conditions (such as Birt Hogg Dube syndrome, Hereditary papillary renal cell cancer, tuberous sclerosis, Von Hippel-Lindau (vHL) syndrome, Hereditary non vHL clear cell renal cell cancer), smoking, higher fat intake, high blood pressure, frequent/ Occasional/ prolonged use of painkillers (such as aspirin, paracetamol, phenacetin, ibuprofen (Nurofen) or other non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), occupational exposure to certain chemicals (such as asbestos [which has been linked to cancers of mesothelium (a membrane that surrounds internal organs of the body) and the lung, and can increase the risk of getting kidney cancers], cadmium, chemical dyes, organic solvent particularly trichloroethylene).
Possible symptoms: Loss of weight and appetite, fatigue, presence of a mass/lump near or in the area of kidney (this is detected during a medical examination), pain in the back (often below the ribs, and the pain hardly goes away) or in other parts of the body (if the cancer has spread/metastasized to the surrounding cells and stay longer there), dull feeling of being extremely bad in health, lower than normal number of red cells in the blood (called anemia, may also a sign of a kidney tumor though it’s rarely occurred), intermittent fever/ recurrent fever, wilms’ tumor (symptoms can only be diagnosed by a doctor), high blood pressure; In the chronic stage: bloody urine/ hematuria (blood found in the urine is visible to naked eyes or may only be seen under microscope during urinalysis, and the presence of blood is always one day but not the next).
Note: At the early stage, kidney cancer doesn’t always cause you any symptoms until it progresses to a chronic/ advanced stage. Therefore, a doctor’s diagnosis is a must. The earliest you receive the treatment, the better chance for a thorough recovery.
Prevention: Quit smoking, eat healthy diets (add colorful fruits, vegetables and whole grains, preferably organic, into your daily diet), reduce your chances from being exposed to a heavily polluted environment/environmental toxins, control your blood pressure, exercise regularly (at least twice a week, with about 30 minutes for each physical section), and maintain a healthy weight (overweight has been clinically proven to be at greater risk of getting kidney cancer).
Skin Cancer
The rate of skin cancer, especially malignant melanoma in adults has risen almost twice than any other common cancer and more people die from it. Furthermore, the rate of malignant melanoma has risen rapidly, making it amongst the highest for any cancer. More than 10,000 cases of skin cancer (particularly malignant melanoma) are diagnosed each year. Overall, proportionately higher cases in younger people are being diagnosed for malignant melanoma. In males, a malignant skin cancer can develop on the back or chest, while for females, it’s usually seen on the legs. Malignant cancer in particular, has claimed over 2,000 lives in the world each year.
Types of cancers: (1) Non-melanoma skin cancer, a common type of skin cancer, but it’s not life-threatening. It’s now the most common cancer in young adults (particularly those who’re aged 15 to 30). (2) Malignant melanoma, a less common type of skin cancer, but can be life-threatening.
Possible causes: Prolonged exposure to sunlight, use of sun beds, a family record of skin cancer, a history of sunburn, those with existing non-melanoma skin cancer (may develop to malignant skin cancer), having lots of moles (abnormal shape, large moles or lots of freckles), or those with light hair or eyes.
For symptoms, types of skin cancers and more details on skin cancer, kindly visit my previous article entitled skin problems might be early signs of skin’s precancerous or cancerous symptoms.
Prevention: Do not stay out in the sun for a longer period, use sunscreen (at least SPF 15 and has broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB; and sunscreen should be applied to dry skin 15-30 minutes before going out) to help protect against UV radiation, protect yourself while out (wear sunglasses, sun hats/ wide-brimmed hat, long pants, sleeve shirts), avoid deliberate tanning, get appropriate amount of vitamin D from your diet, protect yourself from any harmful radiation, seek shade from sun’s ray whenever appropriate.
Final Remark:
Knowing the symptoms of cancer or sign stated herein may help save your life. Therefore, an immediate doctor’s diagnosis is a must. The earliest you receive the treatment or the disease is discovered early, the better treatment options and a better chance for a long-term recovery are always possible.
The information contained herein is not mean to diagnose, mitigate, treat or cure your medical condition. Rather, this educational and health information is aimed to create awareness towards diseases discussed. You should never disregard any medical attentions but you’re strongly urged to seek for an immediate medical assistance from a licensed medical professional at times of emergency or you’ve condition mentioned herein for further treatment or diagnosis. Early recognition and aggressive treatment can determine a successful medical procedure, but most importantly it can save your life. Please don’t take your life for granted or die of ignorance.
Any duplication, modification or distribution of the health information contained herein or in my health blog either in printing form or any forms are strictly prohibited. Please be understood that your act of doing so is immoral and may have taken one’s life due to a mistake in your wording.
Now, you can gain more health knowledge by visiting my health blog entitled HealthAssist. More upcoming updates and latest health information are right on the way!
Liked it
Jenny Heart | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Wow! I learned from you today about all the different types of cancers. It made me want to take better care of myself. Great well written article. Your pictures spoke as loud as your words. Liked it a lot.
lindalulu | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Wow Chan incredible! Wonderful article and filled with such good and important information.Thanks my friend for the education…
Jamie Myles | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Very important topic. Thank you so much for Information packed article.
Hopefully this will educate many people and encourage them to take good care of their bodies.
papaleng | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
another very interesting and educational article complimented with clear photos. Thanks Chan
Melody Arcamo Lagrimas | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Great post, Chan. Am bookmarking this.
Sheila M | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Not something one really wants to think about or face ~ very informative and well researched article!
Mr Ghaz | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Wonderful!..that was excellent and well researched article..very informative too..Thanx for sharing.
deep blue | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Another great stuff which had me thinking if I could reach 50 without any of the symptoms. Really scary and I’m just thankful having a friend to make me more aware. Don’t keep your head much on the writing, remember this is therapy. Take care my friend.
Will
Inna Tysoe | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Another informative article. Thanks.
Inna
Stacey T Pollock | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Very thorough article! Great research on the topic of cancer. I had to hold my stomach as I was reading it when I got to the pictures though. lol.
Hugo La Rosa | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
As always, your article is unbeatable and could well be posted in a medical journal. The information is invaluable. Thanks!
CA Johnson | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
This article is very good, Chan. My grandfather on my mother’s side had colon cancer (he’s cured now) and my grandmother was just diagnosed with breast cancer. She is in the early stages of it and the doctor told her that she would be cured. I need to know all I can about cancer so this article is perfect timing for me. Thanks so much for taking the time to write such a thorough article.
Judy Sheldon | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Chan, you have done such a tremendous job on this! So MUCH work. Those pictures sure got my attention.
Take care & God bless.
BC Doan | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
This is such a comprehensive article, Chan!
Elizabeth Abbott | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
You have absolutely outdone yourself with this article. Verywell composed and worded. The photos are explicit and surely depict just how this massive killer works. I say job well done. TU to you. Thank you for your diligent work here! Elizabeth Abbott
Monica Sappleton | Jul 16, 2009 | Reply
Another well researched and informaive article. Thanks for sharing this great piece of information.
Monica.
Eunice Tan | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
The most comprehensive article about cancer I’ve ever read. Great work Chan.
valli | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Awesome read! Thanks for your well researched info.
rizzei | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
nice post..truly informative..but i just read it..i can’t look at the other images..:)
rizzei | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
nice post..truly informative..but i just read it..i can\’t look at the other images..:)
chitragopi | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Intensive research. The pictures will surely cause nightmare. Can’t imagine all this inside the body.
Goodselfme | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Such a value packed article for education about cancer. Not only do you tell the problems you offer solutions to them as well. So thorough and so well presented with a full array of detail. Your work here is very well received and appreciated. Thank you, friend!
PR Mace | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Outstanding and well researched article. It was very well presented and the photos were chilling. As a nurse I see cancer and the effects it has on people and their families. On a personal note I lost my thyroid gland due to it. I was lucky as it was precancerous and I had a total recovery.
Joe Dorish | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Great info Chan! My cousin just recovered from stomach cancer and I’m sending him this article.
Ruby Hawk | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Excellent information and a real education.Cancer is a devastating disease. I have seen the heartache it causes. Let’s hope one day science will wipe it from the face of the earth.
clay hurtubise | Jul 18, 2009 | Reply
Great piece. As bad as all these are, I believe worse are on their way as disrupt earth’s fragile ecosystem.
Thanks,
Clay
Louie Jerome | Jul 18, 2009 | Reply
Very interesting article
Bozsi Rose | Jul 19, 2009 | Reply
That was thorough! Excellent article.
Kate Smedley | Jul 20, 2009 | Reply
Excellent and well written article as always with insight into an awful disease.
Swapna P | Jul 21, 2009 | Reply
very useful information…thanks for sharing…
CutestPrincess | Aug 4, 2009 | Reply
scary, my beloved uncle died yesterday because of cancer, i feel so sad! Well, I see someone has been doing an awful lot of research and studying. Good job!
BN Nayak | Aug 6, 2009 | Reply
Very Informative
Chris Stonecipher | Aug 14, 2009 | Reply
Chan,
Lately so many of my friends are battling cancer and I just lost two close ones recently. One of my daughter’s care providers has ovarian cancer. She just had surgery to remove the cancer and now she needs cemo and radiation therapy.
Very informative.
Bless you,
Chris
Frances Lawrence | Oct 6, 2009 | Reply
An excellent article. Please be aware of the symptoms of bowel cancer and get any changes checked out. If caught early there is a good chance of full recovery.
http://healthmad.com/conditions-and-diseases/the-bottom-line-dont-ignore-embarassing-symptoms/