2017
What is Cancer? A REVOLT OF CELLS Cancer is the uncontrolled growth and spread of cells. The growth often invade surrounding tissue and can metastasize to distant sites. Normally when old cell die, new ones grow but in cancer, cells multiply without knowing when to stop and without obeying the regulating codes. That s why it s important to detect and treat cancer early before it spreads.
Statistical Data It is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with approximately 14 million new cases and 8.2 million cancer related deaths in 2012: WHO In India the total number of new cancer cases is expected to be around 14.5 lakh a nd the figure is likely to reach nearly 17.3 lakh in 2020: ICMR Among men, worldwide the 5 most common sites of cancer diagnosed in 2012 were lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach, and liver cancer. Among women, worldwide the 5 most common sites diagnosed were breast, colorectal, lung, cervix, and stomach cancer.
Why is Crab ( ) The Symbol of Cancer? Cancer is the Latin word for crab. In its natural habitat, crab is a fast, resilient crustacean that springs to action and moves in multiple directions. Similarly cancer spreads from the place at which it first arose as a primary tumor to distant locations in the body.
Types of Tumours Benign tumours are slow to grow, do not spread or invade nearby tissues. Malignant tumours can spread from the original site and cause secondary tumours. This is called metastasis. Features Benign Tumor Malignant Tumor Rate of Growth Slow Rapid Nature of Growth Limited to the original tissue Invades surrounding tissue Spread Does not Spread Metastasizes via the blood stream and the lymphatic system Cell Differentiation Nearly Normal Usually Poor
Risk Factors of Cancer Cancer is the result of the interaction between a person's age, genetic factors and 3 categories of external agents called carcinogens. Following factors may increase the chances of cancer : Physical - ultraviolet and ionizing radiation; Chemical - asbestos, dyes, components of tobacco smoke, Biological - infections from certain viruses, bacteria or parasites. Human Papilloma, Hepatitis B & C Virus (HPV,HBV & HCV resp.)
Modifying or Avoiding Risk Factors More than 30% of cancer deaths can be prevented by modifying or avoiding key risk factors, including: Tobacco use Being overweight /obese Cancer Prevention Tips Unhealthy diet with low fiber intake Lack of physical activity Alcohol use Sexually transmitted HPV-infection Infection by HBV Ionizing and non-ionizing radiation Urban air pollution Indoor smoke from household use of fuels.
Which Parts of the Body are Affected by Cancer? Almost all the major parts of our body may be affected by cancer.
C A U T I O N 7 Early Warning Signals of Cancer Change in bowel or bladder habits A sore that doesn't heal Unusual bleeding or discharge Thickening or lump in breast or else where Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing (Chronic) Obvious change in wart or mole Nagging cough or hoarseness Remember these symptoms are not conclusive indication of cancer. They could be perfectly harmless. But do get yourself checked and consult doctor.
APPROACHES TO CONTROL CANCER There are Four principal approaches to Cancer control: 1. Prevention 2. Early Detection 3. Diagnosis and Treatment 4. Palliative Care
Check In.. Check Up.. Check Out Yearly check-ups can ensure that even silent & symptomless cancer is detected in its early stages, which includes: Examination of the oral cavity for white patches, non- healing ulcers etc. Self breast examination for females. Examination of the prostate for men and internal examination of women including a pap test and mammography.
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE!!
THE WAY FORWARD Erase the Fear of Cancer its a Treatable Disease Prevention is Better than Cure CANCER can be Cured if Diagnosed and Treated at an Early Stage Medical Section TIFR