How Cancer Forms And How It Can Be Stopped

How Cancer Forms And How It Can Be Stopped

One of the worst bits of news a person will ever get from a doctor is the diagnosis of cancer. There are many risk factors for this disease and you may never totally avoid it. However, there are some things to know about how cancer forms and what can be done to stop it.

Cancer forms in the body when otherwise healthy cells become abnormal in the way that they divide and reproduce. These new cells form at a rate more rapid than they are dying off. These cells form a tumor. Not all tumors are considered cancerous.

Some are classified as benign. However, cancerous tumors continue to grow and may affect healthy cells and tissue located in the same area. Without intervention, the tumor can metastasize and spread to other parts of the body.

The key to stopping cancer is early detection. Individuals should have frequent checkups with their doctor for early detection.

These checkups should include screening tests such as mammograms for women and colonoscopy for both men and women. If there is no family history of cancer and other risk factors are low, most doctors recommend that mammograms begin at age 40 and colonoscopy begin at age 50. Patients with family history of cancer should speak with their doctor about when to start screening tests.

It is possible to lower one's risk of cancer by eating a healthy diet. This includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables and healthy fats.

These foods help to provide the body the needed vitamins and other nutrition that can help to keep cancer away.

On the other hand, diets that are high in refined carbohydrates such as white sugar or flour, hydrogenated fats and bad cholesterol can make the body more susceptible to diseases such as cancer. Many people find it easier to make the changes to a healthy diet by making gradual changes and substitutions of healthy foods for those that are less healthy.

The number one risk factor for cancer, especially lung cancer is smoking. If you currently smoke, make a plan to stop. Your doctor may be able to provide a prescription that will help to make quitting smoking easier.

In addition, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can cause damage to the liver. The liver serves as a filter that removes many harmful substances from the body. If it is unable to function properly, there is an increased chance of developing cancer.

Understanding how cancer is formed can help you to avoid unhealthy habits that increase your risk of developing the disease.

In addition, early screening is a key to stopping the damage that can be caused by cancer. If you have questions about what you can do to prevent cancer, you should talk with your doctor.

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