What is cancer?

Cancer is a group of diseases where cells grow and divide uncontrollably, forming tumors or spreading to other parts of the body. This uncontrolled growth is caused by changes, or mutations, in the DNA of cells, which can happen due to errors during cell division or damage from environmental factors like tobacco or UV radiation. These abnormal cells can invade nearby tissues and travel through the bloodstream or lymph system to start new tumors elsewhere, a process called metastasis.

 

Inflammation and cancer:

Inflammation contributes to cancer by damaging cell DNA, altering cell growth, and promoting tumor blood vessel formation and spread through a process called carcinogenesis. Causes of chronic inflammation linked to cancer include infections, obesity, autoimmune diseases, lifestyle choices like smoking and heavy alcohol consumption, and environmental factors such as chemical and UV radiation exposure.

 

Comprehensive cancer treatment:

Comprehensive cancer treatment is a holistic approach that combines standard medical treatments with supportive services and research to address all aspects of a patient's health, from physical and psychological to spiritual and financial. It is often provided at comprehensive cancer centers, where a multidisciplinary team of specialists collaborates to create a personalized treatment plan. This integrated care model aims to improve patient outcomes by making treatments more efficient, coordinated, and focused on the individual, while also reducing the stress of seeking care at multiple locations.