Medicine

The object of this information is to support the information given by the doctor, not in replacement of the medical advice of your oncologist. Cancer varies from site to site and per individual, so in your specific case, information may vary. In case of any conflict between information given here and what your doctor   says, you should discuss it with your oncologist and trust that they have information more specific to your case. Some people feel comfortable getting a second opinion prior to starting treatment. If so you should seek this form a qualified oncologist specialized to treat your type of cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cancer ?
Cancer is what happens when a group of cells grow uncontrollably and in an abnormal and disorderly fashion. Cancer cells have two properties that make them dangerous. One they can invade into neighboring tissues, and two they can spread to distant areas of the body, forming secondary tumors and metastases

What causes cancer ?
There are basically two types of factors that contribute to the cause of cancer. One is a genetic tendency or predisposition to develop cancer, the other is exposure to triggers that start it off (such as cigarettes, sun exposure, drugs, chemicals and so on).

Can cancer occur at any age ?
Yes, cancer can occur at any age. Even young children can have cancers. Leukemia, kidney tumors and eye tumors are common among childhood cancers. Where as lung, breast, ovarian and prostate cancers are more common in adults.

Is cancer an infectious disease ?
No, cancer is not an infectious disease. Cancer cannot be caught or given to another person. In some cases where you see multiple family members with cancer this may be from a genetic predisposition or an environmental exposure, NOT from transferring it from one person to another. There is no need to fear about social contact either with the family or in the society.

Is cancer a hereditary disease ?
Though, by and large most cancers are not hereditary. However some people carry genetic codes that enable them to develop cancer more easily than those who do not carry such genes do. This is common in some types of breast, ovarian or colon cancer.

Is cancer curable disease ?
Many types of cancers can be cured. A majority of the cancers if detected sufficiently early and treated effectively can be cured or controlled for a long time. The more advanced the cancer is at the time of diagnosis the more difficult it is to cure. Some cancers are capable of recurrence irrespective of the treatment, treating physician and the treatment center, therefore it is important to continue follow up care, even after the treatment is completed. The good news is that the longer you go after treatment without the cancer returning the less likely it is that it will return.

Info Courtesy: CPAA Bangalore