Cancer is the general name for a group of more than 100 diseases. Although there are many types of cancer, all types begin because abnormal cells begin growing out of control. Untreated cancers may cause serious illness or death.

Cancer cell growth is different than normal cell growth. Instead of dying, cancer cells grow and form new, abnormal cells. Cancer cells may also invade or grow into other tissues. Cells begin this process due to DNA damage. DNA damage can be caused by both external factors and internal factors. Some examples of external factors are tobacco, infectious organisms, chemicals or radiation. Internal factors include inherited mutations, hormones or immune conditions.

In many types of cancers, the abnormal cells will combine to form a tumor. Other cancers, such as leukemia, do not typically form tumors, but instead infect the blood and blood-forming organs and travel through the body that way. As cancer progresses, the abnormal cells will travel throughout the body and form new tumors in other areas. Cancer is always named for the area where it starts.

It is important to learn about things you can do to lower your risk of developing cancer. If you already have cancer, you can live a healthier, more active life by learning about your disease and treatments and by becoming an active participant in your care.

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Learn More Who gets cancer? What causes cancer? Am I at risk? What are the symptoms? How is cancer diagnosed? How is cancer treated?

Take Charge! What can I do to lower my risk? What can I do to manage my cancer? Resources and Support

Who gets cancer?

About 1/2 of all men and 1/3 of all women will develop cancer in their lifetime. A person’s risk of developing cancer may increase or decrease based on their family history or lifestyle choices.

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What causes cancer?

Cancer is a complex disease and has many possible causes. The following list contains some of the known causes of cancer:

• Genetics- Some types of cancers run in certain families, but most cancer are not linked to specific genes we inherit from our parents. It is estimated that 5-10% of cancers are inherited. Genetic counseling and testing may be recommended for individuals with a strong family history of cancer.
• Tobacco- Use of tobacco has been associated with an increased risk of cancers of the lung, mouth, lips, nasal cavity and sinuses, voice box, throat, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, kidney, bladder, uterus, cervix, colon/rectum, ovary, and acute myeloid leukemia.
• Diet and Activity- These 2 factors have been linked to an increased risk for cancers of the breast, colon and rectum, endometria, esophagus, pancreas, and kidney (among others). About 1/3 of cancer deaths each year are linked to poor diet, physical inactivity, and carrying too much weight.
• Alcohol- Alcohol is a known cause of cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, esophagus, liver, breast, colon and rectum, and pancreas. The risk of these cancers increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. The American Cancer Society recommends that alcoholic beverages are limited to 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women.
• Sun and UV Exposure- The sun and UV exposure are associated with a greatly increased risk for cancers of the skin.
• Other Carcinogens- Many other environmental factors can lead to an increased risk for cancers and may lurk in our homes, at work, in pollution, and even in some medical tests and treatments. For more information about known and possible carcinogens, see http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/othercarcinogens/index.

To learn more about the causes of cancer, see http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/index.

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Am I at risk?

Cancer is a complex disease with over 100 different types. Each type varies, but the most common risk factors for cancer include:

• Growing older
• Sunlight
• Tobacco
• Radiation
• Certain Chemicals and other carcinogenic substances
• Some viruses and bacteria
• Certain hormones
• Family history of cancer
• Alcohol
• Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and being overweight

To learn more, visit http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/cancer/page3

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What are the symptoms?

The signs and symptoms of different types of cancers vary. The signs and symptoms of cancer depend on where the cancer is located, how big it is and how it is affecting other organs and tissues. Some general signs and symptoms include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Pain
• Skin changes such as darkening of the skin, yellowing of the skin or eyes, itching, reddened skin, or increased hair growth

For more information visit, http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancerbasics/signs-and-symptoms-of-cancer.

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How is cancer diagnosed?

A tumor may be seen on some sort of radiology (X-Ray, CAT scan or MRI) or felt as a lump or bump. Other cancers may be suspected by a doctor because of the patient’s description of their signs and symptoms. A diagnosis of cancer is almost always made by doing a biopsy. A biopsy is when samplings of cells or tissues are taken from the suspected area and looked at under a microscope by an expert. Lab tests may also be run of the cells or tissue proteins, RNA, and DNA to see if cancer is present.

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How is cancer treated?

The specific treatment method for cancer depends on the location of the cancer, the size, and whether or not it has spread. Some general treatments used for cancer include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Biologic therapies (using the body’s own immune system) are also sometimes used.

To learn more about cancer treatments, visit http://www.cancer.org/treatment/understandingyourdiagnosis/afterdiagnosis/after-diagnosis-how-is-cancer-treated

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What can I do to lower my risk of developing cancer?

The Mayo Clinic provides the following 7 tips for lowering your risk of cancer:

1. Don’t use tobacco
2. Eat a healthy diet: include lots of fruits and vegetables, limit fats, and drink only in moderation
3. Maintain a healthy weight and be physically active
4. Protect yourself from the sun
5. Get immunized-certain viruses can lead to an increased risk for cancer
6. Avoid risky behaviors that could lead to the contraction of viruses that increase your risk for cancer
7. Get regular medical care

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What can I do to manage my cancer?

Leading a healthy lifestyle can help manage the signs and symptoms of cancer as well as the side effects of treatment. Eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest and staying as active as you can are important steps. It is also important to get help and support when you need. Numerous resources are available to support cancer patients and their families. Doctors, hospitals, and your local American Cancer Society Chapter are good places to look for resources and referrals.

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Resources and Support

RedBrick Health

866.261.7144

RedBrick Health, DTE Energy’s health management partner, offers confidential over-the-phone and online health coaching. A Health Coach can educate you about high blood pressure, discuss the various treatment options and can help you establish a plan for managing or preventing high blood pressure.

The American Cancer Society

Provides information about many different types of cancer. Local offices will also be able to link patients and their families with community resources.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Shares statistics, educational materials and numerous tools to help you prevent and manage cancer.

National Cancer Institute

Shares statistics, educational materials and numerous tools to help you prevent and manage cancer.

WebMD

WebMD provides credible, valuable health information and tools for managing your health, and support to those who seek information.

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