Cancer is a very dangerous disease and is one of the deadliest diseases in the world. However, this disease can be prevented, treated, and cured. Recognizing the various causes of cancer can help youput it down risk, even prevent cancer.
Cancer is a term used to group diseases caused by uncontrolled cell growth. This abnormal cell growth initially occurs in certain body parts, then can spread to other body parts, even being able to penetrate and destroy normal body tissues. In the medical world, there are more than 200 types of cancer based on the origin of the tissue in which the cells grow.
Cancer Causes and Risk Factors
Anything that causes cells in the body to develop abnormally has the potential to cause cancer, one of which is genetic changes or DNA mutations in cells. DNA is a package consisting of genes. Each gene carries "instructions" that regulate the function of cells in the body. Error "instructions" in genes can cause abnormal cell function, cells grow uncontrollably, and eventually become cancerous.
DNA mutations can occur due to genetic influences or heredity from parents. This condition can also be influenced by environmental factors, such as:
- Excessive exposure to chemicals and radiation.
- Viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Continuous sun exposure.
- Obesity, hormones, or inflammation.
- Smoking habits and lifestyle.
The risk of cancer can increase with age. Although this condition can occur at any age, most people diagnosed with cancer are 65 years of age or older. In addition to age, below are some factors that can increase the risk of cancer:
- Certain health conditions
Some health conditions that cause inflammation in the body can also increase the risk of cancer, such as chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
- Family health history
Cancer can run in families, although the chances are small. If there is a history of cancer in your family, you are more at risk of developing cancer.
- Environmental influenceThere are many harmful chemicals found in the environment, one of which is cigarette smoke. Substances or materials that can trigger cancer are called carcinogens.
- LifestyleThe risk of cancer will increase in people who have a habit of smoking, consuming excessive alcohol, or having casual sex.
How to Prevent Cancer
About 30 to 50 percent of all cancers can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, and by immunizing to avoid infections that can cause cancer. The rest, can be cured if detected early, treated immediately, and using appropriate treatment methods.
The following are some ways to prevent cancer:
- Eat healthy foods, such as vegetables and fruit, protein, and healthy fats, limit the consumption of processed meats, avoid alcohol and stop smoking.
- Maintain an ideal body weight by exercising regularly for at least 30 minutes every day.
- Protect yourself from sun exposure with clothing or sunscreen, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Avoid the habit of doing tanning or darken the skin, either naturally in the sun or with tanning bed.
- Avoiding things that can increase the risk of cancer, such as having casual sex, sharing needles, or using drugs.
- Get vaccinated against viral infections that can trigger cancer, such as hepatitis B virus and HPV.
Certain changes in the body, such as the appearance of lumps or sudden bleeding, can be early symptoms of cancer. If you experience these symptoms, you should not ignore it. Immediately consult a doctor to find out the disturbance that occurs. The sooner it is treated, the better your chances of recovery and avoiding dangerous complications.
