Cancer is a very ominous word. It literally means “crab,” and usage of the word aptly describes the way a malignant tumor attaches and holds on to its victim. There are as many types of cancers as there are types of cells in the body. Some are more common than others, such as lung, colon, breast and prostate cancers.
Each cell in the body has a specific function and is under strict genetic and body system control. Each cell grows, divides and dies in a predictable manner. A liver cell, for example, looks the same as every other liver cell and it functions as such. The genetic material (DNA) in each cell and chemical messengers from the body tell it exactly what to do.
Cancer begins when there is a change in the genetic material of a cell, presumably during replication or by damage from an outside force (carcinogen). Over time, these small changes in the DNA can produce cells that are “abnormal.” These new cells look and act differently from normal cells. They tend to do their own thing. Cell replication produces more and more abnormal cells, eventually leading to a neoplasm (a growth or a tumor).
If the abnormal cells are just slightly different from normal cells, causing little or no disruption of the normal cells’ function, the growth is said to be benign. An example is a fatty tumor or lipoma in the skin. In contrast, malignant cells look and act very different from their normal counterparts. They can be larger or smaller in size, have too much DNA in them, do not mature fully, and grow at an accelerated rate. The end result is that they greatly disturb the normal cells around them.
Normal cells will only grow to a specific size, replicate only when the need arises, and stop growing when they contact adjacent cells. Cancer cells don’t have these internal or external controls to keep them in check. Therefore, as their numbers get larger, they begin to crowd out the normal cells and drain the nutrients from the surrounding cells. Some malignant cells will even transplant themselves to other parts of the body via the bloodstream (metastasize).
There appear to be many factors that play a part in the development of cancer. These include genetics, exposure to carcinogens, and immune status, among others. While some of these are beyond our control, there are strategies to reduce your risk.
Since lung cancer is at the top of the list for cancers in both men and women, avoid smoking. The addition of alcohol to smoking increases the risk of some cancers even more. A well-balanced diet that’s high in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended to reduce your risk of colon and other cancers. Also, avoid too many high-fat and processed foods.
Early detection is very important. Many types of cancer have a strong genetic link, so it is important to know your family’s medical history. Screening for colon cancer should begin at age 50, sooner if you have a family history of colon cancer. The same is true of the prostate in men.
Women should undergo screening for breast cancer with regular self-examination, annual clinical breast exams, and mammography beginning in their 40s, sooner if there is a strong family history. Screening for cervical cancer with Pap smears should begin at least at age 21.
Self-vigilance, a healthy lifestyle, and regular check-ups with your doctor are important components in prevention and screening for most cancers.
The content in this column is for informational purposes only. Consult your physician for appropriate individual treatment. Dr. Reynolds practices Family Medicine in Chesterfield.
