Recording cancer -2025-02-13T14:37:24.846Z

Overview of Cancer

• Cancer can occur in various parts of the body, with the exception of the heart.

• Cancerous growths can be classified as benign tumors or malignant neoplasms.

Understanding Cancer

• Cancer arises due to issues in cell proliferation and differentiation:

  • Defective cell proliferation: Excessive growth of cells.

  • Defective cell differentiation: Cells do not mature properly.

• Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Tumor Classification

• Benign Tumors:

  • Generally well-differentiated cells.

  • May grow large and disrupt organ function.

• Malignant Tumors:

  • Characterized by uncontrolled growth and the ability to spread (metastasize).

• Histological staging is critical for classifying tumors, which involves assessing size, burden, and spread.

TNM Staging System

• T: Size of the tumor (T1, T2, etc.)

• N: Involvement of lymph nodes (N0 - no involvement, N1 - involvement)

• M: Presence of metastasis (M0 - not spread, M1 - has spread)

Cancer Staging

1. Stage 0: In situ (localized within the original site).

2. Stage 1: Tumor is localized to the organ.

3. Stage 2: Local spread within the organ.

4. Stage 3: Extensive local and regional spread.

5. Stage 4: Metastatic cancer, spread to distant organs.

Diagnostic Tool: Biopsy

• A biopsy is the definitive method to determine if a tumor is malignant.

• Histological examination of cells under a microscope provides crucial information about tumor origin and type.

Prognosis by Stage

• Stages 0-2: Generally good prognosis.

• Stage 3: Poor prognosis due to extensive spread.

• Stage 4: Very poor prognosis but not definitive for mortality.

Early Warning Signs of Cancer (CAUTION)

1. Change in bowel or bladder habits.

2. A sore that does not heal.

3. Unusual bleeding or discharge.

4. Thickening or lump in breast/testicles/elsewhere.

5. Indigestion or difficulty swallowing.

6. Obvious change in a wart/mole.

7. Nagging cough or hoarseness.

Preventive Measures Against Cancer

• Avoid exposure to carcinogens (e.g., smoking).

• Eat a balanced, preferably plant-based diet.

• Limit alcohol intake and maintain a healthy weight.

• Regular physical activity and adequate rest.

• Stress reduction.

• Regular physical exams and appropriate cancer screenings:

  • Colonoscopy: Every 10 years (or 5 years if polyps present).

  • Mammograms: Starting at age 30 (or earlier for at-risk groups).

  • Prostate checks for men starting at age 35.

Patient Education

• Monthly self-exams for breast or testicular lumps recommended.

• Awareness of family history and risk factors vital.

• Importance of asking healthcare providers about cancer screenings and personal risk factors.

Summary

• Knowledge of cancer types, staging, warning signs, and preventive measures is critical for healthcare professionals and individuals alike to enable early detection and intervention.