Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the USA. The American Cancer Society estimates that one in six men and one in eight women will develop cancer during their lifetime, although it is very rare for cancer to occur at an early age. Cancer usually occurs when cells in the body divide beyond their normal limits or become resistant to the body’s natural defenses. If a cell will not die or be removed, it grows into a tumor. Tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Austin cancer pain can be a debilitating condition that affects the quality of your life.
Below are the risk factors for cancer;
- Family history
Cancer is a disease that runs in families. This means that if your parent or sibling has cancer, you may be at risk for developing it yourself. If you have relatives with cancer, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.
- Race/ethnicity
Certain racial and ethnic groups are at higher risk of developing certain types of cancer compared to others. For example, African Americans are more likely than whites to develop lung and colorectal cancers, and American Indians/Alaska Natives have a higher risk of developing melanoma compared to other races and ethnicities.
- Smoking status
Smoking is linked to a greater risk of many types of cancer. The risk increases if you smoke cigarettes or cigars, but decreases if you use low-tar cigarettes or avoid smoking altogether. If you quit smoking after having cancer, this lowers your risk for recurrence and improves your overall health and well-being.
- Exposure to certain chemicals
Chemicals can either be good or bad for us, depending on how they affect our cells and their ability to replicate. Many chemicals have been linked to cancer, including pesticides, industrial compounds, and so on.
- Obesity
Obesity is a risk factor for many types of cancer, including prostate, breast, and colon cancers. Obesity is having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. The risk of developing cancer increases with each extra pound you put on your frame, so it is important to keep your weight under control.
What is the best treatment for cancer?
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. It is used to treat cancers that have not responded to other forms of treatment. This treatment option can be combined with other treatment options including radiotherapy to enhance treatment outcomes.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high-energy rays, such as gamma rays or X-rays, to destroy tumor cells. It may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy or surgery. Radiation therapy is given either through the skin or by passing it through your body. Radiation treatments are delivered in small doses over time to allow the body’s natural defenses to destroy cancer cells.
If you are struggling with cancer, contact Republic Spine and Pain professionals now!
