Diseases
cancer
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. Cancer often has the ability to spread throughout your body.
Symptoms
- fatigue
- lump or area of thickening that can be felt under the skin
- weight changes, including unintended loss or gain
- changes in bowel or bladder habits
- persistent cough or trouble breathing
Causes
- cancer is caused by changes (mutations) to the dna within cells.
- a gene mutation can instruct a healthy cell to: allow rapid growth, fail to stop uncontrolled cell growth.
- or make mistakes when repairing dna errors.
Risk factors
- age
- family history
- certain lifestyle choices are known to increase your risk of cancer i.e smoking
Diagnosis
- blood test.
- physical exam.
- imaging tests.
- biopsies
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is cancer?
Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. Cancer often has the ability to spread throughout your body.
What are the symptoms of cancer?
fatigue, lump or area of thickening that can be felt under the skin, weight changes, including unintended loss or gain, changes in bowel or bladder habits, persistent cough or trouble breathing
What causes cancer?
cancer is caused by changes (mutations) to the dna within cells.; a gene mutation can instruct a healthy cell to: allow rapid growth, fail to stop uncontrolled cell growth.; or make mistakes when repairing dna errors.
Which medicines are used for cancer?
doxorubicin, hydroxyurea, mistletoe
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