In this modern era, the advancements in many aspects of our lives are undeniably incredible. Some automobiles are powered by electricity, medical laboratories are able to create clones of animals, and the technology development has been massive over the years. This only means that the quality of living has become more comfortable than before. More and more factories are spawning to manufacture different kinds of products for human use and consumption. A lot of processed foods are being released to the market for easier and quicker preparation, different kinds of tobacco products such as cigarettes are everywhere, and computer technology, including our communication system, has totally changed.
In the early times, due to a lack of medical facilities, many illnesses and diseases were not properly identified and treated. But now, there are tons of names for each and every disease there is, including the newly identified SARS-CoV-2 or commonly known as Covid-19. More than this deadly virus that’s paralysing the entire world, at the moment, cancer is the second most deadly disease worldwide, falling behind heart diseases. As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is responsible for over 10 million deaths each year, and one in every six deaths is due to cancer. Let’s dig deep and find out what causes cancer and the things that we can do to alleviate most of its unpleasant effects on the body.
Table of Contents
Causes of Cancer
Smoking
Tobacco use is one of the leading risk factors for cancer. It is estimated that 80% of lung cancers and 25% of cancer deaths are due to smoking. It is said that smoking causes cancer by damaging the epithelial cells in the lungs, which line the airways and make mucus that protects and lubricates the lungs. Cigarette smoke contains carcinogenic substances that damage the air sacs, which is the one responsible for proper oxygen exchange. Lung tissue damage often begins immediately, especially with frequent smoking.
Diet
Dietary habits play an important role in keeping healthy and away from any illness or disease. Having a healthy, balanced diet is one of the factors that you can control if you want to avoid being at risk of getting any kind of cancer. For example, processed meat is a consistent causing factor of colon cancer, and food with a high glycemic index is seen to contribute to being at risk for prostate cancer. Avoiding these kinds of food and watching your weight can go a long way in preventing risks for any kind of cancer.
Radiation
High-frequency radiation can disrupt the DNA and cause damage. Ionising radiation such as x-rays, gamma rays, and radioactive particles can cause gene mutations that develop into cancer. Non-melanoma skin cancers are an example of cancer due to ultraviolet radiation.
Virus
Some viruses can cause cancer. This is different from the regular flu virus that we encounter from time to time. Viruses like the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can cause cancer in such a way that it alters your DNA and affects normal cell functions. Hepatitis C virus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) also increases the risk of someone developing cancer by affecting the immune system response of the body.
Genes
Any damage to the DNA in the cell may cause gene mutations. When these gene mutations build up in the body and stop the cells from working normally, it grows out of control, and this develops into cancer.
Complications
Cancer itself and its treatments have complications that aggravate a patient’s situation.
Fatigue
Fatigue in cancer patients is different from the usual fatigue that healthy people experience. It is described to be draining or washed out. In order to help with this situation, patients are advised to practice good sleep habits, take time to relax, and have therapy and counselling, amongst many others.
Nausea
This complication is a side effect of cancer therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Doctors usually prescribe anti-nausea medicines. Patients are also advised to drink enough water to stay hydrated.
Pain
Cancer tumours release chemicals that affect the nociceptors. The usual cause of pain in cancer is when the tumour has affected and destroyed its surrounding tissues. Oftentimes, it is also caused by pressure in the nerves, organs, or bones. Cancer pain management is usually composed of analgesics, opioids, and alternative therapies such as massage and meditation.
Some people also use UK medical marajuana, as active compounds in cannabis (cannabinoids) can help in the management of pain, anxiety and stress and sleep regulation. What’s more, based on preliminary research, cannabinoids such as CBD might help diminish side effects associated with cancer treatment, such as decreased appetite, nausea and vomiting.
Weight loss
The American Society of Clinical Oncology stated that about 40% of people with cancer initially reported unexplained weight loss when they were initially diagnosed with cancer. Patients suffering from weight loss are helped by having nutrient-dense meals, supplements, and frequent small feeding.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
There are things that you can do to avoid the risks of developing cancers. Here are some:
Healthy diet
Maintaining a healthy diet undeniably benefits the whole body. Diet rich in lean protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains provides beneficial effects on general wellness. Some supplements like multivitamins that can further boost the immune system, and probiotics, which help maintain our healthy digestive system, are just a few that you can add to your daily diet.
Stop smoking
It is important to keep our respiratory system healthy. This is why smoking tobacco is never a good idea. Stopping smoking will benefit you by making it easier to breathe and having more energy. And against the popular belief that smoking can calm you, stopping using tobacco products will lessen your stress and will improve your skin.
Get physically active
Being physically active can lower the risk of having cancer. Aside from the benefits that it can give by keeping a healthy weight, it also helps reduce insulin and improve your immune system. Regular exercise also helps improve the physical and mental health of those who are undergoing cancer treatment.
Avoid too much sun exposure
Too much sun exposure can damage the DNA in your skin cells due to UV radiation. It is important to protect yourself from the sun. By simply putting on sunscreen when exposure is unavoidable can help. Using a hat, umbrella and staying in the shade when it is too hot are also great measures.
Final Thoughts
Cancer is indeed a difficult disease to manage with limited treatment available. On the other hand, due to modern technology, research and studies for the cure are ongoing. In the meantime, it is important to take measures so we can stay healthy and lower the risks of developing cancer and other deadly diseases.
