Cancer
What is Cancer?
Cancer is a disease that results from abnormal growth and division of cells that make up the body’s tissues and organs. Under normal circumstances, cells reproduce in an orderly fashion to replace old cells, maintain tissue health and repair injuries.
However, when growth control is lost and cells divide too much and too fast, a cellular mass -or “tumor” -is formed.
If the tumor is confined to a few cell layers and it does not invade surrounding tissues or organs, it is considered benign. By contrast, if the tumor spreads to surrounding tissues or organs, it is considered malignant, or cancerous. In order to grow further, cancer develops its own blood vessels and this process is called angiogenesis. When it first develops, a malignant tumor may be confined to its original site.
If cancerous cells are not treated they may break away from the original tumor, travel, and grow within other body parts, the process is known as metastasis.
Cancer Screening is the performance of tests on apparently well people in order to detect a medical condition at an earlier stage.
Cancer that begins in the colon or rectum — is one of the most common cancers, but it’s also one of the most treatable, especially when caught early. It usually starts as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Most polyps are harmless, but some can develop into cancer over time.
AT BMI Surgery, colon cancer is one of the most surgically treated diagnoses that Dr. Long specializes in. That means you’re in experienced, capable hands if surgery does become part of your care plan.
Key Facts to Know
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Screening Saves Lives: Regular screening can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer
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Common Symptoms Include: Changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, persistent abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, and ongoing fatigue
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Risk Factors Include: Family history, age, a personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, a diet high in red or processed meats, obesity, smoking, and limited physical activity
Treatment Options Vary: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of the three may be options your doctor recommends.
Why should I be concerned about breast cancer?
It seems like we’ve all been affected by breast cancer at some point in our lives, whether we have had it, or have had a family member or friend who’s battled it. Every woman has a chance of getting breast cancer. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women and the disease we fear most. As scared as we are, you can try to remember that if you find breast cancer early, it can often be treated successfully. Many women have overcome breast cancer and are living life to its fullest!
Where can I learn more about breast cancer?
For More Information…
National Cancer Institute
Cancer Information Service
Tel: (800) 422-6237
Web site: www.cancer.gov
National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program
Tel: (888) 842-6355 (select option 7)
Web site: www.cdc.gov
American Cancer Society
Tel: (800) ACS-2345
Web site: www.cancer.org
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Tel: (800) 462-9273
Web site: www.komen.org
If you’re still exploring your options, we provide a full range of general surgery procedures to suit your needs.
