CANCER Survival Guide: How to Conquer It and Live a Good Life

Imagine the human body as a vast city, where each cell is a dedicated citizen performing its role in harmony. Normally, these cells grow, divide, and then gracefully retire in a programmed death to keep the city functioning smoothly. But cancer cells are like rebellious citizens who refuse to follow the rules. They grow uncontrollably and become immortal, never dying as they should, leading to the formation of tumors that disrupt the city’s order. This uncontrolled growth can invade vital organs, eventually impairing their life-sustaining functions.

There are four major types of cancer that correspond to different parts of our body's cellular 'city': carcinoma, which arises from the epithelial tissue lining organs; sarcoma, originating in connective tissues like muscles and bones; blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma, which affect the blood and lymphatic system; and central nervous system cancers found in the brain and spinal cord.

Interestingly, only about 5 to 10 percent of cancers are inherited through our genes. The rest arise from mutations that occur sporadically, often influenced by environmental factors or lifestyle choices. Tobacco use is the biggest culprit, linked to nearly 30 percent of all cancers and 87 percent of lung cancers. Even if one switches to e-cigarettes, the long-term safety remains uncertain.

Other lifestyle factors like obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to carcinogens in food, chemicals, and radiation also increase cancer risk. Stress, though less directly proven, can contribute by weakening the immune system and promoting harmful habits like smoking or overeating.

Understanding these basics empowers us to make informed decisions about our health. By recognizing the invisible enemy within, we can take steps to prevent or detect cancer early, improving our chances of survival. As we move forward, we will explore how cancer is diagnosed and the crucial role you play in this process.