Cancer is a condition characterized by the uncontrolled division of the cells in the body, thus resulting in their abnormal functioning. Cancers are often named after their region of development, with skin cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer (in females) being some of the most common cancer forms. Cancer is considered to be one of the major cause of human deaths worldwide, accounting for nearly 13 percent. Unfortunately no treatment is yet known to completely cure cancers, so early diagnosis is essential to delay damage caused by the proliferating malignant cells.
Stages of Cancer
Cancer is frequently differentiated into different stages such as stage 1, stage 2, stage 3 and stage 4, depending upon the maturation and proliferation of the cancerous cells. Stage 1 cancers are those in which the cancer cells remain localized to only a single body organ. When the malignant cells advance within the affected body part, such a cancer is known as stage 2. Stage 3 is similar to stage 2 cancers, but underlying lymph nodes and tissues are also affected along with the organ. When the cancerous cells spread throughout the body to different parts, such a cancer is known as stage 4.
Treatment Options for Stage 2 Cancer
Treatment methods used generally differ from patient to patient depending upon the cancer form and the growth of the cancer cells. However, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are some of the most frequently used treatment methods against stage 2 cancers. Surgery involves the removal of the affected organ to prevent the further metastasis of the cancer cells. In patients having a risk of cancer recurrence, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are suggested after surgery. Chemotherapy involves administration of anti-cancer medications like interleukin-2 (IL-2) to damage the cancerous cells. In the radiation method, high energy light beams (X-rays) are used to destroy and damage the malignant cells and thus avert their metastasis.
Side Effects
Numerous side effects are often associated with cancer treatments. Some of the common side effects linked with surgery include pain (after surgery), bleeding and infection (if the cut is not properly stitched). Side effects associated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss and fatigue.
Time Frame
The time frame of the cancer treatments generally varies from individual to individual depending upon the cancer form. However, radiation therapy is often administered daily for nearly a month, while chemotherapy is periodically administered for four to five months.
Prevention/Solution
Some of the general preventive measures that you can take to avoid the development of cancer include avoiding smoking and consumption of alcoholic drinks, avoiding exposure to toxins and polluting substances, and maintaining a healthy diet and weight.
Tags: radiation therapy, cancer cells, cancerous cells, depending upon, malignant cells, after surgery