Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadliest forms of cancer worldwide. It primarily affects the tissues of the lungs and has a high mortality rate. There are two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is more common, accounting for approximately 85% of all cases.
What are the risk factors?
The primary risk factor for lung cancer is
smoking, which accounts for about 85% of cases. Other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and other carcinogens. A family history of lung cancer also increases risk.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms often include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss. Because these symptoms can be subtle and mistaken for other illnesses, lung cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as a
chest X-ray or CT scan, followed by a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells. PET scans and MRI may also be used for further evaluation.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment options vary depending on the stage and type of lung cancer. They can include surgery, radiation therapy,
chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Early-stage NSCLC may be treated with surgery alone, while more advanced stages often require a combination of treatments.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and is the third most common cancer worldwide. It often develops from benign polyps that become cancerous over time.
What are the risk factors?
Risk factors include age (most cases occur in people over 50), a diet high in red or processed meats, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use. A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps and certain inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome also increase risk.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. Early stages of colorectal cancer may not display symptoms, making regular screening important.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis generally involves a
colonoscopy, where a camera is used to inspect the colon and rectum. If polyps or suspicious areas are found, a biopsy is performed. Additional imaging tests like CT scans may be used to determine the extent of the disease.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the cancerous section of the colon or rectum. Depending on the stage, this may be followed by
chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy are also options for advanced colorectal cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and deadliest types of cancer. It often goes undetected until it is in the advanced stages due to its subtle symptoms.
What are the risk factors?
Risk factors include smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and a family history of pancreatic cancer or genetic syndromes like BRCA mutations. Age is also a significant factor, with most cases occurring in people over 65.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal or back pain, weight loss, and digestive issues. Because these symptoms are non-specific, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed late.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound. A biopsy is then performed to confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests for tumor markers like CA 19-9 can also aid in diagnosis.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment options are limited and often depend on the stage of the cancer. Surgery is the only potential cure, but it is only an option for a small percentage of patients. Other treatments include
chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care to manage symptoms.
