What is the definition of the term ''cancer'' and what are some key types and treatments of the disease?

Cancer is a disease that results from the abnormal growth and division of cells in the body. These cells grow and divide uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumors that can invade nearby tissues and organs, and even spread to other parts of the body.

There are many types of cancer, which are classified based on the type of cell that is initially affected. Some of the most common types of cancer include:

• Breast cancer: cancer that forms in the breast tissue, typically in the ducts or lobules
• Lung cancer: cancer that forms in the lung tissue, typically in the cells lining the air passages
• Colon cancer: cancer that forms in the colon or rectum, typically in the cells lining the inside of these organs
• Prostate cancer: cancer that forms in the prostate gland in men

There are many different treatment options for cancer, depending on the type and stage of the disease, as well as other factors such as the patient's age and overall health. Some of the most common treatments include:

• Surgery: the removal of the cancerous tumor and surrounding tissue
• Chemotherapy: the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing
• Radiation therapy: the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing
• Immunotherapy: the use of drugs or other substances to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells

Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. These contrast with benign tumors, which do not spread. Possible signs and symptoms include a lump, abnormal bleeding, prolonged cough, unexplained weight loss, and a change in bowel movements. While these symptoms may indicate cancer, they can also have other causes. Over 100 types of cancers affect humans. Tobacco use is the cause of about 22% of cancer deaths. Another 10% are due to obesity, poor diet, lack of physical activity or excessive drinking of alcohol.

Tobacco use is the cause of about 22% of cancer deaths. Another 10% are due to obesity, poor diet, lack of physical activity or excessive drinking of alcohol.

Types of cancer

• Carcinoma: Cancers derived from epithelial cells. This group includes many of the most common cancers and include nearly all those in the breast, prostate, lung, pancreas and colon.
• Sarcoma: Cancers arising from connective tissue (i.e. bone, cartilage, fat, nerve), each of which develops from cells originating in mesenchymal cells outside the bone marrow.
• Leukemia: Cancers of the blood-forming tissues, such as bone marrow and the lymphatic system.
• Lymphoma: Cancers of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system.
• Myeloma: Cancers of the plasma cells, which are white blood cells that produce antibodies.

Treatments for cancer

• Surgery: This is the removal of cancer cells by cutting them out of the body.
• Radiation therapy: This is the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: This is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: This is the use of drugs that target specific molecules on cancer cells, killing them without harming healthy cells.
• Immunotherapy: This is the use of drugs to boost the body's immune system so that it can fight cancer.
• Palliative care: This is care that focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for people with cancer.

The best treatment for cancer depends on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the person's overall health.