3 Leading Forms of Cancer
Just what is cancer?
It is a term used to indicate any of various types of malignant neoplasms which invade surrounding tissues, may metastasize to several sites, and are likely to recur after attempted removal and to cause death of the patient unless adequately treated1..
In 2010 the three leading cancers that were newly diagnosed and caused the majority of deaths for men were prostate, lung /bronchus, and colon / rectal.
FACTS |
COLORECTAL |
PROSTATE |
LUNG |
| Involves the colon, rectum, and anal canal | Most commonly diagnosed cancer | Leading cause of cancer deaths | |
| 3rd most leading cause of death | AfricanAmerican men have the highest incidence | Early stage lung cancer has the highest cure rate | |
| 20% possible hereditary link | Possible hormonal factor (African American men have a 15% increase in testosterone) | Treatment based on stage of disease | |
| Mortality rate higher amongst African American Men | Possible diet risk factor(high fat and meat diet) | Cigarette smoking is responsible for most cancers | |
SYMPTOMS |
May be without symptoms, , | Asymptomatic- no symptoms | Cough |
| Change in bowel habits usually an increase in frequency | Ureteral (urinary dysfunction | Hemoptysis(coughing up blood) | |
| Constipation | Urinary frequency | Dyspnea(difficult breathing | |
| pain in lower back, or radiating down the leg is | Urinary hesitancy | Chest, shoulder or arm pain | |
| Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort | Urine dribbling (resemble BPH) | Hoarseness 2nd to laryngeal nerve paralysis | |
| Fatigue may be present if anemia is present | Impotence (erectile issues) | Rust streaked or purulent sputum | |
| weight loss | Weight loss | Wheeze | |
| Leg edema due to involvement of lymph node | Leg edema (late stage) | Tracheal obstruction | |
| Advanced Colorectal | Advanced Prostate Cancer(a)Back pain(b) edema in legs(c) Anemia(d) weight loss(e) fractures | Advanced Lung Cancer(a)Bone pain(b)Liver dysfunction(c)neurological deficit(d) Weight loss(e)anemia | |
TEST |
Fecal Occult blood testingFlexible SigmoidoscopyTotal Colonic Examination | Digital rectal exam and a blood test known as PSA (prostate-specific antigen) | No screening test Is recommended |
Life style changes |
Age 50 get an examHigh fiber diet supplementationDietary fat reductionSelenium IntakeStatins for cholesterolOmega 3 fatty acids
|
1. Get a baseline PSA and DRE (digital rectal exam) at age 40, with annual evaluations beginning at age 50 | Stop smoking and know theearly signs for a possible better prognosis |
1 Stedman’s Medical Dictionary-26th Edition; 2 Pharmacotherapy- A Pathophysiologic Approach- 8th Edition; Dipiro, Wells, Matzke, Talbert, Yee, Posey
What must be understood is that some cancers are difficult to detect early because they do not produce clinical signs or symptoms until they have become large or have metastasized (the spread of the disease from one part of the body to another). Because of that, it is imperative that you get a yearly check-up!!!
There are SEVEN cancer warning signs
(1) change in bowel or bladder habits,
(2) a sore that does not heal,
(3) unusual bleeding or discharge,
(4) thickening or lump in breast
(5)Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing
(6) obvious change in wart or mole
(7) nagging cough or hoarseness
Talk to your physician about what is best for you!!!
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes ONLY. It is not to suggest nor diagnose any disease state. ALWAYS seek professional help from a medically licensed professional.