Cancer overview

Cancer is not just one disease but a collection of unique conditions in which cells in the body become abnormal then grow and multiply out of control. Although this is true of all cancer types, whether it is breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, lung cancer, or any of several other types, each cancer has unique characteristics and is treated with a unique set of therapies.

At the time of diagnosis, staging of the cancer is done to help determine the prognosis (the likely future course and outcome of the cancer) and type of treatment a patient should receive. Doctors classify the cancer according to a staging system that describes the size of the tumour and the extent of cancer spread.

Types of cancer treatment Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and, for some cancers, hormones or hormone-blocking medications are all used to treat cancer. The goal of cancer treatment is to kill cancerous cells while killing as few healthy cells as possible in the process. Surgery is used to remove cancer cells that are packed together.

Cancer treatment depends on the type and stage of your cancer and your general health. You and your doctor will work together to choose an appropriate treatment. To learn more about your cancer and your treatment options, you may want to ask your doctor the following questions: What type and stage of cancer do I have? What is the goal of treatment? What are my treatment options? What treatment(s) would you recommend? What does the treatment involve (e.

Hearing a doctor say ''You have cancer'' is devastating news. After the initial shock, this abrupt change in your life affects you in many ways. Most obvious is the physical fact of having an illness, which compromises your health. The other consequence is its emotional impact. Physically, cancer treatment such as chemotherapy may leave you tired and keep you from enjoying your usual activities.

What is palliative care? Palliative care is a specialized form of health care that meets the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of both an individual facing a life-threatening illness and his or her loved ones. With palliative care, treating physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering is as essential as treating the underlying disease, regardless of whether the disease is curable or not.