Just What is Cancer? - ChoiceCancerCare

Posted by ChoiceCancer on November 2nd, 2014

Cancer is a frightening topic that leads many to conjure images of doom and gloom. While this disease is scary and can lead to death, the reality is it comes in many forms, some much more treatable than others. With early detection and skilled treatment many cancer patients, in fact, find themselves on the road to recovery rather quickly.

Gaining an understanding about the disease can help lessen fears and shed a spotlight on just why it’s so important to undergo screenings and routine tests to rule out the formation of this illness.

So, what is cancer?

Cancer is actually more than one disease. It’s an umbrella term that is used to describe more than 100 different diseases. The use of the umbrella term applies because each one of these diseases is characterized by an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. In many cases, these cells form masses or lumps that become noticeable over time. Tumors, however, are not associated with all forms of cancer.

What are the types of cancer?

There are several broad-based forms of cancer that most people need to be aware of. They include:

• Carcinomas – These are cancers that begin on the skin or in the tissues that line or cover the body’s internal organs.
• Sarcomas – This type of cancer tends to originate in the bones, cartilage, muscle, fat, blood vessels, or connective tissues in the body.
• Leukemia – This type of cancer gets its start in the blood-forming tissues of the body, such as the bone marrow.
• Lymphoma and myeloma – These types of cancer start in the body’s immune system.
• Central nervous system cancers – Forms of cancer in this class originate in the spinal cord or brain.

It is estimated that some 10.5 million Americans are alive today, living with cancer. This group of diseases takes on many forms; some are more treatable than others. Those who are at higher risk for the disease are urged to undergo screenings as recommended by their physicians. Even those who are not considered high risk should begin screening after certain age milestones are met.

Cancer is a scary diagnosis, but it’s important to understand the type and just what the implications are. If you’ve been diagnosed, be sure to ask your doctor for specific details.

About Author
Choice Cancer Care is an independent, physician-owned cancer center network. Dr. Gregory Echt, a radiation oncologist with over two decades of experience, is the founder of Choice Cancer Care. Choice Cancer Care is among the busiest practices in the country for brachytherapy, or prostate seed implant therapy – a cancer treatment plan for prostate cancer that provides remarkable success rates and fewer life-limiting side effects.