Cancer is the 2 nd leading cause of death in the United States Cancer is uncontrolled abnormal cell growth. It can occur on the skin, body tissue, bone or blood. Carcinogen- a substance that causes cancer. Malignant tumor- a cancerous tumor Metastasis- spread of cancer

Risk Factors In many cases, Cancer is a preventable disease that requires major lifestyle changes. 1- Family History 2- Environment 3- Lifestyle Choices and Behaviors What are some specific examples that would fall under each category?

In its early stages, cancer may have no symptoms, but eventually a malignant tumor will grow large enough to be detected. Warning Signs of SPECIFIC Cancers C – Change in bowel habits A – A sore that does not heal U – Unusual bleeding or discharge T – Thickening or a lump I – Indigestion or difficulty swallowing O – Obvious change in a wart or mole N – Nagging cough or hoarseness

ABCD’s of Skin Cancer

Diagnosis 1.Screening test Females- self breast exam, pap smear, mammogram & colonoscopy. Males- self testicular exam, doctor prostate exam Colonoscopy. 2. Lab tests – Samples of blood, urine, body tissue or substances in the body are checked for certain features. – Identifies possible changes in a person’s health before any symptoms appear. **Early Detection is Critical!**

Imaging Procedures Pictures of areas inside your body that help the doctor see whether a tumor is present. X-rays: view organs and bones. CT scan: view organs. Ultrasound: views body tissue. MRI: views bone, organ and body tissue. PET scan: Shows chemical activities in the body.Biopsy Small piece of tissue taken from suspected area and examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous.

Surgery Removal of the tumor and tissue around it. Prevents re growth of tumor. May remove lymph nodes to help determine stage of cancer.

Radiation High-energy radiation used to kill cancer cells by damaging DNA. Can kill normal cells too. Is given in all stages of treatment. Can be used in combination with chemotherapy. “Zaps” cancer is one area of the body

Chemotherapy Used to destroy cancer cells, stop cancer cells from spreading and slow the growth of cancer cells. Systemic drug that will travel throughout the body. Chemotherapy can be given in these forms: An IV (intravenously) A shot (injection) into a muscle or other part of your body A pill or a liquid that you swallow A cream that is rubbed on your skin