Oncology: Prevention, Diagnostics and Treatment

The term oncology refers to a branch in medicine that focuses primarily on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Cancer is a disease that leads to the development of abnormal cells that multiply uncontrollably and destroy healthy tissues. Cancers typically have the ability to spread to other parts of an inflicted person's body.

It is the second largest cause of death on the planet, but survival rates are steadily getting better thanks to improvements made in the way cancers are detected and treated.

Oncology 101: Symptoms of cancer

The symptoms of cancer typically vary depending on the part of the body it originates. The most common ones include:

• A lump underneath the skin
• Weight loss or gain
• Yellowing or darkening of the skin
• Sores that will not heal
• Problems swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• A persistent cough
• Persistent joint or muscle pain
• Changes in bowel habits

Preventing cancer

While there are no definite ways to avert cancer, doctors in oncology have identified specific things that can lower a person's risk. These include:

• Stop smoking –– smoking has been linked to various cancers besides lung cancers; stopping now reduces the risk of cancer developing in the future
• Limit sunlight exposure –– UV rays increase a person's risk of developing skin cancer
• Eat a healthy diet ––individuals whose diets are rich in vegetables and fruits are less likely to develop cancer
• Exercise regularly –– it reduces the risk of cancer developing
• Watch your weight –– overweight people are more likely to develop cancer
• Consume alcohol responsibly –– no more than two drinks per day for males and a drink per day for females
• Get regular cancer screenings –– early detection considerably increases the odds of successful treatment
• Some immunizations can lower the risk of cancer

Diagnosing cancer

As was mentioned earlier, the earlier cancer is detected, the higher the chances of successful treatment. Doctors often screen for cancer using:

• Physical examinations –– the doctor will inspect the patient's body looking for abnormalities like bumps and tumors
• Lab tests like blood and urine tests can also be used to detect the anomalies caused by cancer
• Imaging tests like bone scans and MRIs can be used to make a diagnosis
• Biopsy –– a sample of cells is collected for further testing; it is the most precise way to diagnose cancer

Treating cancer

The different stages of cancers are usually indicated with Roman numerals with higher numbers being used for the more advanced stages. The stage of a patient's cancer often determines the treatment used.

Cancer treatments include:

• Chemotherapy –– this involves using medication to kill the cancer cells
• Radiation –– high-powered energy beams are used to attack cancer cells
• Bone marrow transplant
• Hormone therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Surgery

Get the treatment you need

Cancer is a serious condition that most people never want to be diagnosed with. The truth is it can often be managed when detected early, so getting regular cancer screening is the best way to maintain your health. Stop by our clinic to learn more about preventing and treating cancer.

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Request an appointment here: https://lindenbergcancer.com or call Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center at (856) 475-0876 for an appointment in our Marlton office.

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