Cancer is a group of diseases which affect the cells of the body. Normal cells reproduce themselves and divide in two. When cells begin growing too rapidly, and without order, a tumor is created. Many tumors are benign (be-NINE), meaning they will stay confined to the part of the body where they formed and can usually be removed. Some tumors, however, are malignant tumors that invade surrounding tissue, destroying healthy cells. If unchecked, cells may break off and spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body and create new tumors. This process of metastasis (met-ah-stay-sis) can have fatal results. Cancer can be divided into four groups. Cancers that occur on the skin or an organ are called carcinomas (kar-si-noe-mahs). Those that occur in muscle tissue or bone are called sarcomas (sar-coe-mahs). Lymphomas (lim-foe-mas) are tumors of the lymphatic (lim-fat-ick) system, affecting lymph nodes in the neck, groin, armpits, liver, and spleen. Leukemias are cancers of the blood-making bone marrow. Many factors may cause cancer. Scientists have found that smoking is associated with several cancers, and that high-fat diets and obesity may also increase your risk. Many cancers may be caused by environmental contamination by cancer promoting elements called carcinogens (car-sin-o-jins). Excessive exposure to sunlight is a factor in many skin cancers. If you have a history of cancer in your family, talk to your doctor about the warning signs of cancer. Early detection is the key to effective treatment. For more information about cancer, contact your health care provider.
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