What is cancer?

Cancer is a group of diseases where cells in the body begin to grow in an uncontrolled way. Normally, cells grow and divide in an orderly pattern, but cancer cells ignore these rules.

As these abnormal cells multiply, they can form tumors or spread to other parts of the body. This can affect how organs and tissues work.

Factors that may increase risk include:

• Tobacco use and alcohol consumption
• Poor diet or lack of physical activity
• Exposure to sunlight or radiation
• Contact with harmful chemicals
• Certain infections, such as HPV or hepatitis
• Family history of cancer

Symptoms

Cancer can affect the body in many different ways. Symptoms often depend on where the cancer starts and how far it has spread.

Common symptoms may include:

• A lump or unusual swelling
• Ongoing fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Pain that doesn’t go away
• Changes in skin, such as new spots or sores
• Persistent cough or changes in bowel or bladder habits

Cancer develops when changes occur in a cell’s DNA. These changes can happen over time or be inherited.

How is it diagnosed?

Healthcare providers use several tools to find and confirm cancer. The process often begins with a physical exam and a review of your symptoms and medical history.

Tests may include imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to examine the inside of the body. Blood tests can provide additional clues. In many cases, a biopsy—removing a small sample of tissue—is needed to make a clear diagnosis.

Screening tests, such as mammograms or colonoscopies, can help detect some cancers early, even before symptoms appear.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the type of cancer, how advanced it is, and your overall health. Many people receive a combination of therapies.

Common treatment options include:

• Surgery to remove tumors
• Radiation therapy to target cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to destroy rapidly growing cells
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy to attack cancer more precisely
• Hormone therapy for certain cancers

In some cases, early-stage cancers can be treated successfully. More advanced cancers may require ongoing care to manage the disease and improve quality of life.