Cancer
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a healthcare professional. In case of an emergency, immediately call 911.
Cancer encompasses over 100 diseases where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably. While cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the United States (accounting for roughly 20% of all deaths) and the primary cause of death for those under 65,, early detection and support services improve outcomes.
Types of Cancer
Cancer is categorized by the type of cell or part of the body where it starts. Common categories include:
- Carcinomas: The most common type, originating in the skin or tissues that line internal organs.
- Sarcomas: Originate in the bone, cartilage, fat, or muscle.
- Leukemias: Originate in the blood-forming tissue of the bone marrow.
- Myelomas: Originate in the plasma cells of the bone marrow.
- Lymphomas: Originate in the cells of the immune system.
*Beyond these, there are mixed-type cancers and other rare variations, each differing in their primary site and clinical characteristics.
Most Common Cancers in the United States
- Breast Cancer: The most common cancer diagnosed in women.
- Prostate Cancer: The most common cancer diagnosed in men.
- Lung Cancer: The leading cause of cancer death for both men and women.
- Colorectal Cancer: Affects the colon or rectum.
- Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: Cancer that starts in the lining of the stomach. While less common in the general U.S. population, it represents a significant health disparity for Asian Americans.
Who Gets Cancer?
The average age at cancer diagnosis in the U.S. is 67, with the risk of developing the disease increasing significantly as people age. Risk increases with age. Genetics and ethnicity also play a role: for example, African Americans have higher death rates than all other racial groups for many cancer types. Lifestyle factors, especially tobacco use, remain the largest preventable risk factor.
Stomach cancer represents a critical health disparity for Asian Americans, particularly those of Korean descent. Korean Americans are roughly five times more likely to develop stomach cancer compared to non-Hispanic whites. Stomach cancer remains a leading oncological concern within the Korean American community. Clinical data indicates it is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Korean men and the second most common among Korean women.
Causes of Cancer
Cancer is caused by mutations to the DNA within cells, which may be inherited or acquired. Common triggers include:
- Carcinogens: Exposure to chemicals (like tobacco smoke) and radiation (UV rays).
- Lifestyle: Poor diet, obesity, and lack of exercise.
- Biological Factors: Chronic inflammation or viral infections (such as HPV or Hepatitis B/C).
Signs & Symptoms of Cancer
- Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue.
- Persistent cough or trouble breathing.
- Changes in skin or unusual lumps.
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits.
Stages of Cancer
Most cancers are staged from 0 to 4:
- Stage 0: Abnormal cells are present but have not spread.
- Stages I–3: Cancer is present; higher numbers indicate larger tumors or deeper spread.
- Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant parts of the body (Metastasis).
Diagnosis of Cancer
- Physical Exams & Lab Tests: Checking for lumps and analyzing blood, urine, or tissue samples to identify tumor markers. These are proteins or specific substances produced in higher amounts by cancer cells—or by the body in response to cancer—and are measured to confirm a diagnosis.
- Imaging: CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays to see inside the body.
- Biopsy: Taking a small tissue sample to look at cells under a microscope. This is the only way to be certain of a cancer diagnosis.
Treatment of Cancer
- Surgery: To remove the tumor.
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Helping your own immune system fight cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Blocks the growth of cancer by specifically targeting the unique genes or proteins found within cancer cells.
Prevention of Cancer
- Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption.
- Protecting skin from UV rays (sunscreen and shade).
- Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active.
- Getting regular screenings: Routine mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap tests can find cancer early when it is easiest to treat.
- Vaccinations: The HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer and other HPV-related malignancies, while the Hepatitis B (HBV) vaccine helps reduce the risk of developing liver cancer.
Living with Cancer
Living with cancer involves more than just medical treatment. It includes managing physical symptoms (pain, nausea) and emotional health through integrative care, nutrition, and psychological counseling for both the patient and their family.
Support Groups for Cancer
Resources
