Cancer 101: What You Need to Know

Cancer is a complicated disease that affects millions of people around the world. Today, doctors have more tools than ever to help catch cancer early, treat it more precisely and improve quality of life during and after treatment. Understanding how cancer works — what causes it, how to lower your risk and what your options are — can make a big difference. The more you know, the more confident and prepared you can feel when it comes to making decisions about your health or supporting a family member or friend.

What is Cancer?

Cancer happens when cells start growing and dividing out of control instead of dying off like they should. These abnormal cells can begin anywhere in the body, forming tumors that can invade tissues and organs, and sometimes spread to other parts of the body. Many causes of cancer include:

• Genetic Factors: Mutations in genes (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2) can increase cancer risk; these may be inherited or acquired over time.
• Lifestyle Factors: Tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and poor diet (high in processed foods and fats) are major contributors.
• Environmental Exposures: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, air pollution, asbestos and certain chemicals are known carcinogens.
• Infections: Viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B or C can trigger cancers such as cervical or liver cancer.

Types of Cancer

Cancer isn't just one disease — it's a group of over 100 conditions, each classified by the tissue or organ where it begins. Common types include:

• Carcinomas: Cancers in the skin or in tissues that line organs like the breast, lungs or colon
• Sarcomas: Cancers in the body's connective tissues, like bones or muscles
• Leukemias: Cancers of blood-forming tissues (bone marrow) leading to abnormal circulating cells
• Lymphomas: Cancers of the body's infection-fighting system
• Central Nervous System Cancers: Tumors in the brain or spinal cord

Each type of cancer has unique characteristics and requires a tailored diagnostic and treatment approach.

Prevention: Risk Factors and the Role of Diet

Risk Factors

While some risk factors can't be changed, many lifestyle choices can reduce cancer risk. This starts with understanding controllable and uncontrollable factors:

• Modifiable Risks: Smoking, excessive alcohol, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and ultraviolet exposure
• Non-Modifiable Risks: Age (risk increases after 50), family history and certain genetic predispositions
• Environmental Risks: Long-term exposure to workplace chemicals or pollutants

Can Certain Diets Prevent Cancer?

While no diet guarantees cancer prevention, evidence suggests certain dietary patterns can lower risks:

• Diets rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains are associated with a lower risk of certain cancers (especially colorectal), likely due to fiber and overall dietary patterns.
• Some studies suggest that reducing red meat and increasing plant-based protein can also decrease cancer risk.

A balanced diet combined with regular exercise is key.

Early Detection: Recommended Screenings and Ages

Screenings catch cancer before symptoms appear, improving survival rates. General international guidelines recommend:

• Breast Cancer: Mammograms every 1–2 years for women starting at age 40 (or earlier with family history).
• Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopies every 10 years starting at age 45, or earlier for high-risk individuals.
• Prostate Cancer: PSA testing for men starting at age 50 (or 45 for African Americans or those with a family history).
• Lung Cancer: Low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals (e.g., heavy smokers) aged 50–80.
• Cervical Cancer: Pap smears every 3 years for women aged 21–65, or HPV testing every 5 years after age 30.
• Skin Cancer: Regular skin checks, especially for those with fair skin or frequent sun exposure.

Consult your healthcare provider to personalize screening schedules based on risk factors. Screening recommendations may vary based on individual risk and regional guidelines; consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Diagnosis: How Is Cancer Diagnosed?

Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and better outcomes. Cancer diagnosis often begins with symptoms or routine screenings and involves several steps:

• Physical Exams: Doctors check for lumps, abnormal growths or other signs.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or ultrasounds visualize tumors.
• Biopsies: A tissue sample is analyzed to confirm cancer and determine its type and stage.
• Blood Tests and Genetic Testing: To detect tumor markers or genetic mutations that may support diagnosis or guide treatment (not definitive alone).

Treatment and Therapies: Standard and Emerging Options

There are many treatment options for cancer. The right choice depends on the type and stage of cancer and the patient's age, health and preferences. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: Removes tumors, often used in early stages.
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
• Radiation Therapy: Targets tumors with focused high-energy rays.
• Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific changes or mutations in cancer cells, reducing harm to destroy the cancer cells.

Coping: Supporting Loved Ones with Cancer

Supporting someone through cancer can be challenging, but small acts of kindness make a big difference. You can help by:

• Being present and listening without judgment
• Helping with errands or transportation to appointments
• Encouraging rest and self-care
• Joining a support group together (Bayhealth offers local groups for patients and families to share experiences).
• Learning more about their diagnosis to offer informed support

Small gestures, like sending encouraging notes or spending quality time, can also make a big difference.