Cancer Types
Most Common Cancers:- Lung Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Colorectal Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Hodgkin's Lymphoma
There are two main types of lung cancer: small cell and non-small cell, both occurring in your respiratory system. Non-small cell is the most common and spreads more slowly than small type, which is more likely to spread to the other organs. A mass of cells in the lungs can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Most people diagnosed are 65 and older, but factors like prolonged tobacco use, radon and asbestos exposure, along with a history of lung cancer in the family can all increase your chance of developing lung cancer. Smoking is the most significant factor that contributes to lung cancer and even second-hand smoke has been proven to also cause cancer. In the early stages of lung cancer you may not feel any symptoms, but as the cancer progresses you may experience a terrible cough, trouble breathing, constant chest pain, coughing up blood, hoarse voice, lung infections, fatigue, or weight loss. Many of these symptoms may not be related to lung cancer, so see your doctor to be sure. The doctor may then run further tests like a physical exam, x-ray, or a CT scan. You might also be referred to a pathologist who specializes in testing and studying samples of cells and tissue for possible cancer growths. Treatment methods include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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The most common type of cancer among women in the U.S., breast cancer takes the lives of more that 200,000 women a year in this country. However, men are also affected by breast cancer, but at a much lower rate. Women over the age of 60 and also women who have a history of breast cancer in their family are at a higher risk. In the breast there are small organs called lymph nodes, which can collect malignant cancer cells. A mass of cells can form together to grow a tumor in the breast that can either be benign or malignant. Malignant tumors can be life threatening and can sometimes even spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
You should perform monthly self-examinations to feel for possible lumps in the breast or have a doctor check for you. Women over the age of 40 should have mammograms every 1 to 2 years because they can show a lump forming in the breast before you can even feel it. Performing regular self-breast examinations, clinical breast examinations and mammograms can help detect tumors early on. Early detection makes it easier to start a treatment plan or undergo surgery if needed.
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Colorectal Cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the U.S., affecting women and men alike. It incorporates both cancer of the colon and cancer of the rectum, which are both parts of the digestive system, forming a long tube called the large intestines. A mass of cells in the colon or rectum can become a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. Polyps are usually benign growths on the inside of the colon or rectum, but sometimes they can become cancerous so it is better to have them removed when possible.
Those over the age of 50 or with a history of colorectal cancer in their family are more likely to develop the disease, but the average diagnosis age is 72. The most common warning flag when dealing with colorectal cancer is change in bowel movements such as: diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, change in stool diameter, excessive cramps or bloating, weight loss, fatigue, nausea or vomiting. When screening for colorectal cancer, the doctor may do a number of tests to look for polyps, cancer or other abnormalities. These include fecal occult blood tests, sigmoidoscopy (the use of a thin tube inside rectum to check for polyps), colonoscopy (the use of a thin tube inside the colon to check for polyps), x-rays, or a routine digital rectal exam. Treatments for colorectal cancers are surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapy, and radiation therapy. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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In the U.S., Prostate Cancer is the second most common cancer in men only to skin cancer. More that 180,000 men in the country get diagnosed every year. The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system that produces seminal fluids. A mass of cells in the prostate can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Aging is the most significant factor related to increased risk of prostate cancer. Men over the age of 65 are the average patients diagnosed, but other factors for increased risk include a history of prostate cancer in the family, changes in the prostate, or changes in chromosomes. Common symptoms are mainly urinary complications such as not being able to urinate, having difficulty stopping urine flow, having a constant urge to urinate, weak urine, urine that starts and stop, and pain or burning during urination. Other symptoms include difficulty having an erection, blood in the urine or semen, or pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs. A physical exam, digital rectal exam, blood test, transrectal ultrasound (use of sound waves to show tumors in the prostate), or a transrectal biopsy (the removal of tissue from the prostate to test for cancer cells) can be administered. Surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy and chemotherapy are all courses of action the doctors may advise for treatment. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Hodgkin's Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins growing in the immune system, also known as simply Hodgkin disease. Over 8,000 people are diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma ever year in the U.S. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and is spread out from the tonsils down to the lymph vessels in your legs. Because of this, the cancer can start almost anywhere in your body. Hodgkin's Lymphoma is born out of a lymphocyte (B cell), and develops abnormalities to become a Reed-Sternberg cell. This new abnormal cell can divide rapidly and begin forming tumors. A mass of cells in the immune system can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. There are two types of Hodgkin Lymphoma, classical and nodular lymphocyte-predominant. The classical Hodgkin's is what has been described above while the nodular lymphocyte-predominant is a rare type of the cancer where the abnormal cell is called a popcorn cell.
Symptoms for Hodgkin's Lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes in the neck, underarms or groin. Also, you can become more sensitive to alcohol, lose weight, develop a constant fever, have night sweats, develop itchy skin or a cough, have chest pains or trouble breathing, or have persisting fatigue. The cancer is most common in younger people ages 15-35 and older people 55 and older with a history of Hodgkin's in their family. Also, a weak immune system or diseases such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), or the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes an increase of risk. If symptoms continue, your doctor will most likely conduct a physical exam, run blood tests, conduct chest x-rays or perform a biopsy (the removal of the whole or parts of a lymph node to test for cancer cells). Depending on the size of your tumor, your age, the stage of which the cancer has reached, and your symptoms, different treatments may be advised. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation are all common treatments for Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Other Cancers:
- Anal Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Bone Cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Gastric Cancer
- Head and Neck Cancers
- Leukemia Acute
- Leukemia Chronic
- Melanoma
- Multiple Myeloma
- Myelodysplastic Syndrome
- Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
- Ovarian Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Renal Cancer
- Skin Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Uterine Cancer
The last couple inches of the large intestine outside the body is called the rectum and the opening of the rectum is referred to as the anus. Anal cancer is diagnosed when cancer cells form in the tissue surrounding the anus. A mass of cells in the anus can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. It is a rare form of the disease, but anal cancer still affects thousands of Americans a year. Rectal itching and bleeding, anal pain, swelling of the lymph nodes in the anal or groin area, changes in stool diameter, and abnormal anal discharge are all possible symptoms of anal cancer and should be checked by a physician immediately. When diagnosed, there are a few treatments available including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
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Each year in the U.S. over 30,000 men and 15,000 women are diagnosed with bladder cancer, making it the fourth most common cancer men and the eighth most common for women. A mass of cells in the bladder can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. There are three types of bladder cancer that begin in cells found in the lining of the bladder. These include: transitional cell carcinoma, Squamous cell carcinoma, and Adenocarcinoma. Transitional cell carcinoma forms on the innermost layer of the bladder's tissue and is considered to be the most common form. Squamous cell carcinoma are thin, flat cells that can form after a long infection in the bladder. Adenocarcinoma grows in the glandular cells after the bladder has experienced a long inflammation or irritation. Superficial bladder cancer occurs only in the lining of the bladder and can possibly return after treatment, often as another superficial cancer in the bladder. If the cancer becomes invasive, it can grow through the bladder's muscular wall and can spread.
Your risk for bladder cancer increases with age as well as those who have bladder cancer run in their family. Smoking or a prolonged exposure to carcinogens can also increase your risk. Men are two to three times more likely to get bladder cancer as women. Symptoms can be blood in the urine, pain during urination, or inability to urinate and frequent urination. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a urologist or other doctor and they will most likely conduct a physical exam, urine tests, intravenous pyelogram (injection of dye into blood vessels to better x-ray the bladder), or crytoscopy (the use of a thin tube to look into the bladder and examine the inner lining). The doctor may then decide to conduct a biopsy to remove tissue to examine for cancer cells. If cancer cells are detected, a number of treatment methods may be suggested. Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or biological therapies are all available treatments for bladder cancer. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Bone cancer is a relatively rare form of cancer, accounting for less than one percent of all cancers. It can affect all ages depending on the type of bone cancer that is diagnosed. A mass of cells in the bone can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. Malignant tumors cause destruction of the bone tissue. There are different types of bone cancer including osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and the Ewing Sarcoma Family of Tumors, (ESFTs). Osteosarcoma is usually found in the knee or upper arm and stems from osteoid tissue in the bone. It affects young people between the ages of 10 and 19, but also those over the age of 40, usually with other health conditions. Chondrosarcoma grows from the cartilage that pads the bones and lines the joints. It is commonly found in the pelvis area, upper leg, and the shoulder. chondrosarcoma is found usually in older adults over 40 and the risk increases with age. ESFTs can grow in both bone and soft tissue and occurs usually along the backbone, pelvis, legs, and arms. Unfortunately, ESFTs occurs in young people under the age of 19, most commonly in boys.
Symptoms can include pain or swelling near the bones, but not always. If pain persists, you should consult a doctor. There are many ways your doctor can test for bone cancer ranging from MRI's or CAT scans to blood tests. Bone cancer can be treated in a variety of ways including surgery to remove the tumors, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or even cryosurgery to freeze the cancer cells in order to destroy the tumor. It is important to follow-up after treatment to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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11,000 women a year are diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer, many under the age of 50. The cervix is the organ that connects the uterus and vagina in women and can form cancer cells in its tissue sometimes. A mass of cells on the surface of the cervix can become a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods, bleeding after sexual intercourse, bleeding after menopause, and longer menstrual periods are all signs that should be taken seriously and you should consult a doctor. Also, persisting pain in the pelvic region or pain during sex can be possible cervical cancer symptoms. Recently, the Human Papillomavirus, (HPV), has been linked to an increased chance of cervical cancer. Regular pap tests with your gynecologists to identify abnormal cervical cells are the best way to prevent cervical cancer. If your test comes back abnormal, a colposcopy (the use of a small magnifying lens and light to see the cervix better), or a biopsy (the removal of tissue in the cervix to test for cancer cells), may be performed. Cervical cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Cancer of the esophagus organ affects around 13,000 men and 3,500 women in the U.S. every year. The esophagus is a muscular tube located in your chest and is part of the digestive tract. A mass of cells in the esophagus' inner wall can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. Esophageal cancer can begin in the inner wall of the esophagus, but over time it can penetrate deeper into the esophagus or even to other areas of the body. There are two types of esophageal cancer called adencarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Adenocarcinoma is the most common form of esophagus cancer in the U.S. and is usually in the lower esophagus near the stomach. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common worldwide esophagus cancer and is found in the upper part of the esophagus.
People 65 and older are most likely to get esophageal cancer, because age is the most serious factor for increased risk. Men are over three times more likely to develop the cancer over women. Smokers, heavy drinkers, people with poor diet, and overweight people all have an increased risk of getting esophageal cancer. In early stages the disease may not cause any symptoms, but as it progresses, you may feel pain when swallowing, pain in the chest or back, weight loss, heartburn, food getting stuck in the esophagus or coming back up, or a persisting hoarse voice or cough. Your doctor will diagnose you using x-rays, blood tests, endoscopy (the use of a thin tube inserted into the esophagus to see better), or a biopsy (the removal of tissue from the esophagus to check for cancer cells). Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy are all common treatments of esophageal cancer. If the cancer progresses, the esophagus can become blocked and a variety of methods may be recommended in order to make it more comfortable for you to eat and drink.
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Gastric cancer involves the digestive system and more specifically, the stomach. A mass of cells in the stomach's inner wall can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
This cancer usually affects older people over the age of 72 and men or more likely to develop it than women. Smoking, poor diet, and a personal history of gastritis, pernicious anemia, or inflammation from previous stomach surgeries, can all contribute to causing gastric cancer. Early stages of stomach cancer do not usually have noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses you may feel increased discomfort in the stomach area, feeling full or bloated easily, nausea and vomiting, and weight loss. These are common feelings that may not be related to gastric cancer, so consulting a doctor is important. Your doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist who will most likely conduct a physical exam, x-rays, endoscopy (the use of a thin tube to look at the inside of your stomach wall), or a biopsy (the removal of tissue from the inner stomach to test for cancer cells). Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are all courses of treatment that are common in treating gastric cancer. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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These cancers include cancer in the nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, mouth, salivary glands, throat, or larynx. Head and neck cancers comprise about three to five percent of cancer cases in the U.S. A mass of cells in the head or neck area can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Tobacco use and alcohol consumption are very serious factors in the increasing risk of head and neck cancers. 85 percent of all head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use and those who use tobacco and alcohol together are much more likely to develop the disease than those who only use one. Other common risk factors are sun exposure, radiation exposure, dust inhalation, poor oral hygiene, and exposure to asbestos. Red patches on the gum, tongue or mouth, jaw swelling, pain and bleeding of the mouth, chronic sinus infections, bloody noses, frequent headaches, paralysis of the face, ear pain, difficulty breathing, ringing in the ears, loss of hearing, pain when swallowing, and chronic pain are all symptoms of various types of head and neck cancers. All of these symptoms are not necessarily connected to cancer; so if you develop one or more, see your doctor to be sure. The doctor can diagnose you by conducting a physical exam, x-rays, blood or urine tests, endoscopy (the use of a thin tube to look at the inside of your mouth, nose or throat), or a biopsy (the removal of tissue from the affected area to test for cancer cells), CAT scan, MRI, or PET scan. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are all courses of treatment that are common when dealing with head and neck cancers. Rehabilitation when going through this type of cancer is very important. Speech therapy, learning to use a stoma (a windpipe through which the patient is able to breathe), and use of a voice box may be a few of the post-treatment factors for recovery.
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Over 40,000 adults and 3,500 children are diagnosed with leukemia each year in the U.S. Leukemia begins in the tissue that forms blood. There are three different types of blood cells that develop out of our bone marrow, each with a specific job in the body. White blood cells fight infections, red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body, and platelets clot the blood to control bleeding. Leukemia begins when abnormal blood cells are formed and they begin to crowd the red blood cells and platelets, multiplying but never dying. In leukemia acute the cells multiply more rapidly and your condition will most likely worsen at a higher rate than leukemia chronic. There are two types of leukemia acute: acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), which affects the lymphoid cells and is common in young children, and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which affects the myeloid cells and occurs in all ages.
Factors that may increase your risk for developing leukemia include a history of the disease in the family, prolonged radiation or benzene exposure, smoking, chemotherapy, and history of down-syndrome or myelodysplastic syndrome. Symptoms can depend on the area of the body the leukemia cells have inhabited and how many have multiplied by that time. Common symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpit, fevers or sweats, infections, fatigue, bleeding or bruising easily, swelling or discomfort of the abdomen, weight loss, or pain in the bones or joints. There also may not be any symptoms at all. These symptoms may not be due to cancer, so if any persist or worsen, see a doctor immediately. Testing for leukemia can include a physical exam, blood tests, a biopsy (the removal of tissue to look for cancerous cells in the bone marrow), and x-rays. Treatment for leukemia acute needs to be immediate, due to the fact it progresses so aggressively and quickly. Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, biological therapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant are all treatment options for the disease. Once you undergo treatment, there may be complications such as infections due to weakened immune system, anemia and bleeding, or dental problems, all of which can be treated with help from your doctor. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Over 40,000 adults and 3,500 children are diagnosed with leukemia each year in the U.S. Leukemia begins in the tissue that forms blood. There are three different types of blood cells that develop out of our bone marrow, each with a specific job in the body. White blood cells fight infections, red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body, and platelets clot the blood to control bleeding. Leukemia begins when abnormal blood cells are formed and they begin to crowd the red blood cells and platelets, multiplying but never dying. In leukemia chronic the cells grow very slowly and your symptoms will most likely worsen at a more gradual rate than leukemia chronic. There are two types of leukemia chronic: chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), which affects the lymphoid cells in people over the age of 55, and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), which affects the myeloid cells and occurs in mostly adults.
Factors that may increase your risk for developing leukemia include a history of the disease in the family, prolonged radiation or benzene exposure, smoking, chemotherapy, and history of down-syndrome or myelodysplastic syndrome. Symptoms can depend on the area of the body the leukemia cells have inhabited and how many have multiplied by that time. Common symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpit, fevers or sweats, infections, fatigue, bleeding or bruising easily, swelling or discomfort of the abdomen, weight loss, or pain in the bones or joints. There also may not be any symptoms at all. These symptoms may not be due to cancer, so if any persist or worsen, see a doctor immediately. Testing for leukemia can include a physical exam, blood tests, a biopsy (the removal of tissue to look for cancerous cells in the bone marrow), and x-rays. Treatment for leukemia chronic may not need to happen right away, because the cancer grows slowly. Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, biological therapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant are all treatment options for the disease. Once you undergo treatment, there may be complications such as infections due to weakened immune system, anemia and bleeding, or dental problems, all of which can be treated with help from your doctor. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, affecting over 50,000 people a year in the U.S. Cells that produce the pigment melanin, which give the skin its color, are called melanocytes. These melanocytes can form moles, a common colored mark on the skin that can be flat or raised. Moles can be benign, but when melanoma occurs, the melanocytes become malignant. A mass of cells on the skin can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. Melanoma can occur in other areas besides the skin such as the eye, the digestive tract, and sometimes the lymph nodes. On men, melanoma usually develops on the torso, head or neck and on women it is more common to start on the lower legs. It is not as common in people with darker complexions.
Melanoma affects all ages, and people who are at higher risk have a history of melanoma in their family, or if you have fair skin, many moles, weakened immune system, severe sunburns, or have had overexposure to ultraviolet radiation. The most common symptom is the change in size, shape, color or feel of a mole you already have. If the mole is asymmetrical, if the borders are irregular, if the color is uneven or unusual, or if the diameter changes you should see a dermatologist. Melanoma can be cured and checking yourself or having a dermatologist check for you. Checking regularly will catch the disease early on and make melanoma easier to treat effectively. Some people have abnormal moles called dysplastic nevi that are more likely to change into melanoma than regular moles, so those people should be checked more often. A doctor will usually perform a biopsy (the removal of the suspicious skin growth to test for melanoma). Treatment depends on the extent of the damage that melanoma has caused. Surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapy, radiation therapy or plastic surgery could be part of your treatment process. Those who have had cases of melanoma are likely to have a recurrence so continue to get checked by your dermatologist.
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Over 20,000 people are diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma each year in the U.S. It is a type of cancer that starts in a type of white blood cells called plasma sells. There are three different types of blood cells that develop out of our bone marrow, each with a specific job in the body. White blood cells fight infections, red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body, and platelets clot the blood to control bleeding. Plasma cells make antibodies that protect your body from germs. A mass of myeloma cells can form together to grow a tumor in the bone marrow that can either be benign or malignant. Malignant tumors can be life threatening and can sometimes even spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Myeloma cells can grow in many bones at once and is then referred to as multiple myeloma, which can also begin to harm your organs.
Those over the age of 65 or with a family history of multiple myeloma are at a higher risk to develop the disease. Also, men in the U.S. have shown to be more likely to be diagnosed multiple myeloma than women. Symptoms may include pain in the bones, broken bones, fatigue, persisting thirst, infections and fevers, weight loss, nausea, constipation, or frequent urination. These symptoms may not be due to multiple myeloma so if any persist or worsen, see a doctor immediately. Doctors may run blood or urine tests, x-rays, or perform a biopsy (the removal of tissue to check for myeloma cells in the bone marrow), in order to test for the disease. If diagnosed, they will then recommend a course of treatment such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, steroids, or a stem cell transplant. Following treatment, other health problems may occurs such as infections, anemia, persisting pains, thinning bones, high calcium levels in your blood, kidney complications, and amyloidosis. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Myelodysplastic Syndrome, (MDS), is a group of abnormal blood cells developed by your bone marrow. There are three different types of blood cells that develop out of our bone marrow, each with a specific job in the body. White blood cells fight infections, red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body, and platelets clot the blood to control bleeding. The bone marrow begins to slowly fail to produce normal cells and as a result, there are fewer mature blood cells and the ones that have already developed do not function correctly. It is possible that MDS can progress into acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which makes it more aggressive and more difficult to treat. There are five different classifications of MDS that have different rates of progression due to acute leukemia. They range from refractory anemia with excess blasts in transition (RAEBT), which has a survival projection of 5 months for diagnosis, to refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (RARS), which has a survival projection of 55 months from diagnosis.
Each year in the U.S. 10,000-15,000 people are diagnosed with MDS, most over the age of 60. Men seem to be more likely to develop MDS than women. Symptoms of MDS include anemia, fatigue, increased risk of infection, and inability to clot when bleeding. If you develop these symptoms your doctor may perform a biopsy (the removal of bone marrow to check for cancer cells), or test for abnormalities in the DNA of your blood cells through cytogenetic analysis. MDS treatment is aimed at controlling the abnormal cell growth and can be done so with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, an stem cell transplant. The treatment style, however, depends on how low your blood count is and your risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Every year in the US, over 60,000 people are diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. This type of cancer begins growing from the immune system, which helps your body fight infections and diseases. The lymphatic system is spread out from the tonsils down to the lymph vessels in your legs. Because of this, the cancer can start almost anywhere in your body. A mass of cells in the immune system can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Those who are 60 and older are more likely to develop this cancer, but it can still occur in younger people as well. A weakened immune system and contracting certain infections can increase your risk of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Symptoms for the disease include swollen lymph nodes in the neck, underarms or groin. Also, you can lose weight, develop a constant fever, have night sweats, develop a chronic cough, have chest pains or trouble breathing, have continued pain or swelling in the abdomen, or a persisting fatigue. If symptoms continue, your doctor will most likely conduct a physical exam, run blood tests, conduct chest x-rays or perform a biopsy (the removal of the whole or parts of a lymph node to test for cancer cells). Depending on the size of your tumor, your age, the stage of which the cancer has reached, and your symptoms, different treatments may be advised. Chemotherapy, biological therapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation are all common treatments for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Ovarian Cancer begins in a woman's reproductive system located in the pelvis. The ovaries produce hormones and release the eggs to the womb. There are two types of ovarian cancer: epithelial carcinomas which is cancer that starts in cells on the ovaries' surface or malignant cell tumors which being in the eggs' cells. A mass of cells in the ovary tissue can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. Ovarian cysts can form on or in the ovary and are often benign but if they do not go away, the doctor might test it for cancer.
Women over 55 are the most common to be diagnosed. Some other signs that you might be at risk is if you have a history of Ovarian Cancer in your family, if you have never been pregnant or if you have taken estrogen for 10 or more years. Symptoms may include pain or pressure in the abdomen, pelvis back or legs, a swollen or bloated abdomen, nausea, indigestion, gas, constipation or diarrhea, or fatigue. Other less common symptoms are shortness of breath, frequent urination, and unusual vaginal bleeding. These symptoms may not be linked to ovarian cancer, but should be checked out by a doctor. To diagnose you properly, your doctor may conduct a physical exam, a pelvic exam, blood tests, ultrasound (a device that uses sound waves to show pictures of tumors inside the ovary), or a biopsy (the removal of tissue or fluid from the ovary). Treatment can be implemented through surgery, chemotherapy or sometimes radiation therapy. After treatment, health complications such as persisting pain, swollen abdomen, blocked intestines, swollen legs, shortness of breath and depression can occur. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Almost 30,000 Americans a year are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The pancreas is a gland in the abdomen that makes insulin and other hormones for the body and helps store energy from our food. It also makes pancreatic juices that form enzymes to break down our food. Most pancreatic cancers start in the pancreatic juices, but some more rare types form in the cells that make insulin. A mass of cells in the pancreatic tissue can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Mostly people over the age of 60 are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, most of which are men. Smoking, diabetes, chronic pancreatic, or histories of pancreatic cancer in the family are all factors that can increase you risk to develop the cancer. Symptoms can include upper abdomen or back pains, yellow skin and eyes, dark urine, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, and weight loss. These symptoms are not sure signs of cancer, and you should consult a doctor if they continue or worsen. To test for the disease, the doctor may conduct a physical exam, lab tests, CT scan, ultrasonography (device that uses sound waves to detect tumors), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (use of a small tube to take internal x-rays), percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (a dye injected in the liver to test for blockage from a tumor), or a biopsy (the removal of tissue from the pancreas to test for cancer cells). Treatment methods include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Renal Cancer is cancer found in the tissue of the kidneys, which are located in your abdomen and are responsible for making urine. They also help control blood pressure and produce red blood cells. A mass of cells in the kidney can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. Renal cell cancer is the most common cancer of the kidney in adults and Wilms' tumor is the most common type of childhood kidney cancer.
The average person diagnosed with renal cancer is over 40 and more likely to be male than female. Other risk factors that increase your chance for developing renal cancer are smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, long-term dialysis, asbestos or cadmium exposure, and if you have Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome, (a rare disease that runs in the family and can cause abnormalities in the genes). Symptoms can include blood in the urine, pain in the side, a lump in the side or abdomen, weight loss, fever, or fatigue. Many times these symptoms do not indicate cancer, but should be checked out by a doctor. If your doctor suspects you may have renal cancer, you will most likely be given a physical exam, urine tests, blood tests, CT scan, x-rays, ultrasound test (use of sound waves to show tumors in the kidney), or a biopsy (the removal of tissue from the kidney to test for cancer cells). Surgery, arterial embolization (a type of local therapy that shrinks the tumor to make it easier to remove), radiation therapy, biological therapy, or chemotherapy may be treatment methods that your doctor will suggest. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Cells that produce the pigment melanin, which give the skin its color, are called melanocytes. These melanocytes can form moles, a common colored mark on the skin that can be flat or raised. Moles can be benign, but when melanoma occurs, the melanocytes become malignant. A mass of cells on the skin can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life-threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. There are two types of skin cancer, both usually found on the head, face, neck, hands, and arms in areas especially exposed to the sun. Basal cell cancer, which grows slowly, is most commonly found on the face and rarely spreads. Squamous cell skin cancer may be found in areas of the body that don't necessarily get sun exposure and can spread to the lymph nodes and organs.
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the main contributor to increasing your risk for skin cancer. However, other factors include if you have a family history of skin cancer, scars or burns, infections like the human papillomavirus, exposure to arsenic, chronic skin inflammation or ulcers, skin sensitivity diseases, radiation therapy, weak immune system, and actinic keratosis or Bowen's disease (diseases that produce a scaly growth on the skin). You should always protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays by limiting your time in direct sunlight, wearing clothing that covers the head and body when possible, and using sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. The most common symptom is the change in size, shape, color or feel of a mole or skin growth you already have. A doctor will usually perform a biopsy (the removal of the suspicious skin growth to test for skin cancer). Treatment depends on the extent of the damage that melanoma has caused. Surgery, topical chemotherapy, radiation therapy or photo-dynamic surgery could be part of your treatment process. Those who have had cases of skin cancer are more likely to have a recurrence, so continue to get checked by your dermatologist.
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About 8,000 men in the U.S. are diagnosed with testicular cancer every year, accounting for only one percent of all cancer in American men. The testicles are part of the male reproductive system, producing and storing sperm. A mass of cells in one or both of the testicles can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Men between the ages of 20 and 39 are most commonly diagnosed with testicular cancer. A family history of testicular cancer, an undescended testicle, or any congenital abnormalities such as being born with complications in the testicles, penis or kidneys are all factors in increased risks for developing the cancer. Symptoms can include a lump or swelling in the testicle, pain in the testicle or scrotum, enlargement of testicles, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum, or dull pain in lower abdomen, back or groin. Many times these symptoms do not indicate cancer, but should be checked out by a doctor. Your doctor will screen for testicular cancer by conducting blood tests, an ultrasound (the use of sound waves to project images of possible tumors in the testicles), or a biopsy (the removal tissue from the testicle to test for cancer cells). Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery are commonly used as treatment for the cancer. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Each year over 25,000 women and 8,000 men are diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The thyroid is a gland locate in your throat and is used to make hormones that affect heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, weight and regulate healthy calcium in the body. A mass of cells in the thyroid can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs. There are a few different types of thyroid cancer, all of which can be better treated and possibly cured if caught early. Papillary thyroid cancer accounts for about eighty percent of all thyroid cancers and starts in the follicular cells to then grown slowly. Follicular thyroid cancer makes up about fifteen percent of the cases and also grows slowly. Medullar thyroid cancer is a more rare form that starts in the C cells of the thyroid and can make high levels of calcitonin. Anaplastic thyroid cancer is another rare type that begins in the follicular cells of the thyroid and can spread very quickly.
A family history of thyroid cancer, goiters, or colon growths can all be considered to increase the risk for developing the disease. Also, women and people exposed to high levels of radiation or iodine may also have an increased chance of getting the disease. The average patient diagnosed is over 45 years old. Symptoms can include a lump in the front of the neck, hoarse voice, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or persisting pain in the throat or neck. These symptoms are not sure signs of cancer, and you should consult a doctor if the continue or worsen. In order to test for thyroid cancer, the doctor will most likely do one or more of the following tests: physical exams, blood tests, an ultrasound (the use of sound waves to project images of possible tumors in the thyroid), a thyroid scan (the use of radioactive substance in the bloodstream that can indicate tumors in the thyroid), or a biopsy (the removal tissue from the thyroid to test for cancer cells). Your courses of treatment might include surgery, thyroid hormone therapy, radioactive iodine therapy, external radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Follow-ups are recommended in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatments and to make sure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body.
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Uterine cancer is the most common form of cancer of the female reproductive system in the U.S. and consists of six percent of all cancers of American women. The uterus is an organ in the female reproductive system. A mass of cells in the uterus can result in a benign or malignant tumor. Benign tumors are not usually life threatening and do not spread. The uterus has a few types of benign growths that are common in women including fibroids, endometriosis, and endometrial hyperplasia. Malignant tumors can be deadly, can spread to other parts of the body, and can attack nearby tissues and organs.
Uterine cancer usually occurs in women 50 or older, but risks can increase with obesity, colorectal cancer, or the use of the drug temoxifen or hormone replacement therapy. You may experience symptoms such as unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, difficulties with urinating or painful urination, pain during intercourse, or pain in the pelvic area. These symptoms may not be due to cancer, so if any persist or worsen, see a doctor immediately. You will most likely see a gynecologist who can perform a pelvic exam, pap test, transvaginal ultrasound (the use of sound waves to project images of possible tumors in the uterus, or a biopsy (the removal tissue from the uterine wall to test for cancer cells), to come to a diagnoses.
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