Cancer encompasses more than 100 different diseases that can affect any organ.
The BCUZ presented the following facts about cancer:
- This disease is one of the leading causes of death on the planet.
- The most common causes of death are related to lung, stomach, liver, colorectal, and breast cancer.
- The types of cancer prevalent among men and women differ.
- About 30% of cancer deaths are caused by five main lifestyle and dietary risk factors, such as being overweight, a lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet, physical inactivity, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Smoking is the most significant risk factor, accounting for 22% of all cancer cases and 71% of lung cancer cases.
- It is projected that the number of cancer deaths will increase, with an expected 13.1 million deaths by 2030.
The main sign of cancer is the rapid formation of abnormal cells that multiply uncontrollably and can metastasize to other organs, which is one of the leading causes of mortality among patients.
In the early stages of the disease, symptoms may be absent; however, it is necessary to see a doctor if the following signs are present:
- The first — unexplained weight loss of 4-5 kg or more;
- The second — fever and chills, often observed during metastasis;
- The third — increased fatigue, which can be an early sign of tumor growth, especially in leukemia;
- The fourth — changes in the skin. Besides skin cancer, other forms can cause darkening, yellowing, or redness, as well as itching and excessive hair growth;
- The fifth — pain, which may indicate early stages of certain tumors, such as testicular or bone cancer, but more often indicates metastasis.
In addition to general symptoms, it is important to pay attention to changes such as bowel or urinary disorders, non-healing wounds or ulcers, white patches in the mouth or on the tongue, unusual discharges or bleeding, lumps in the breast or other parts of the body, difficulty swallowing or indigestion, changes in moles and warts, as well as a persistent cough or hoarseness. These symptoms may also be related to other diseases, so if cancer is suspected, it is important to consult an oncologist.
The BCUZ emphasizes that regular medical check-ups are key to the early detection of oncological diseases.
