Cancer occurs when cells experience abnormal growth, leading to detrimental consequences. It is a condition that can originate from various cell types within the body and affect any organ. Among the most prevalent forms of cancer are breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer, lymphoma, and prostate cancer.
The signs and symptoms of cancer vary depending on the specific type and location and it has the potential to spread to other regions of the body, with certain types exhibiting more rapid and aggressive spreading tendencies than others.
It is a fact that cancer on its own is not fatal. However, there are certain instances and factors that can cause cancer to turn deadly. In this article, we will get over questions such as HOW DOES CANCER KILL YOU? But before then, it will interest you to know how cancer starts and the different stages that are involved in the formation of cancer disease. Understanding these key points will help explore a detailed description of the question “How does cancer kill you”
HOW CANCER START
Cancer is a complex disease that can start due to various factors and mechanisms. While the exact process of cancer initiation can differ depending on the type of cancer and individual circumstances, there are common underlying mechanisms involved. Here’s a general overview of how cancer starts:
Genetic Mutations: Genetic mutations play a crucial role in initiating cancer. Mutations can occur spontaneously during DNA replication or result from exposure to certain risk factors such as radiation, chemicals, or viruses. These mutations can disrupt the normal control mechanisms that regulate cell growth, division, and death.
Oncogenes Activation: Oncogenes are genes that have the potential to cause cancer when they become abnormally activated. Normally, these genes help regulate cell growth and division. However, certain mutations or gene amplifications can lead to their constant activation, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and the development of tumors.
Tumor Suppressor Genes Inactivation: Tumor suppressor genes are responsible for inhibiting cell growth and division, promoting DNA repair, and triggering cell death (apoptosis) when necessary. Inactivation or loss of function mutations in tumor suppressor genes can remove these normal restraints on cell growth, allowing abnormal cells to multiply and form tumors.
Dysregulated Cell Signaling: Healthy cells rely on a complex network of signaling pathways to communicate and regulate their growth and division. In cancer, these signaling pathways can become dysregulated, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and survival. For example, mutations in genes involved in the Ras pathway or the PI3K/AKT pathway can contribute to cancer development.
Angiogenesis: Tumors need a blood supply to grow beyond a certain size. Angiogenesis is the process by which tumors stimulate the formation of new blood vessels to provide them with nutrients and oxygen. Cancer cells can release signals that promote angiogenesis, enabling the tumor to receive the necessary resources for its growth and metastasis.
Metastasis: Cancer can also spread from its original site to other parts of the body through a process called metastasis. During metastasis, cancer cells invade nearby tissues, enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and establish secondary tumors in distant organs. This ability to metastasize makes cancer much more challenging to treat.
The development of cancer is often a multifactorial process, involving a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and chance. Understanding the specific molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying different types of cancer is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies, early detection methods, and targeted therapies.
CANCER STAGES AND SYMPTOMS
Cancer stages and symptoms vary depending on the type and location of the cancer. The staging of cancer refers to the extent of its spread, while symptoms are the physical or observable signs that may indicate the presence of cancer. Here’s a general discussion of cancer stages and symptoms:
Cancer Stages:
- Stage 0: This stage indicates the presence of abnormal cells that have not invaded nearby tissues. It is often referred to as carcinoma in situ.
- Stage I: Cancer is localized and limited to the organ of origin. It is yet to spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant sites.
- Stage II and III: Cancer has spread further within the organ or to nearby lymph nodes, indicating a more advanced local involvement.
- Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs or sites through metastasis. This stage is considered advanced or metastatic cancer.
Cancer Symptoms:
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss, often accompanied by loss of appetite, can be a symptom of various cancers.
- Fatigue: Persistent fatigue, weakness, or exhaustion that does not improve with rest can be a symptom of cancer.
- Pain: Persistent or worsening pain, especially if it doesn’t have an apparent cause, maybe a symptom of cancer. The pain can occur at the site of the tumor or spread to other areas.
- Changes in the Skin: Skin changes such as darkening, yellowing, redness, excessive hair growth, or changes in the appearance of moles or warts can be signs of skin cancer or other types of cancer.
- Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits: Persistent changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as blood in the stool or urine, prolonged constipation or diarrhea, or frequent urination, can indicate gastrointestinal or urinary tract cancers.
- Persistent Cough or Hoarseness: A persistent cough, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing may be symptoms of lung, throat, or esophageal cancers.
- Abnormal Bleeding: Unusual bleeding or discharge, such as blood in the urine, stool, or coughing up blood, as well as abnormal vaginal bleeding or bloody nipple discharge, should be evaluated, as they can be symptoms of various cancers.
- Lumps or Abnormal Growth: The presence of lumps, bumps, or abnormal growths in the breasts, testicles, lymph nodes, or any other part of the body may be indicative of cancer.
- Persistent Indigestion or Difficulty Swallowing: Chronic indigestion, difficulty swallowing, or persistent stomach discomfort can be symptoms of gastrointestinal cancers.
Note that these symptoms are not exclusive to cancer and can also be caused by various other conditions. However, if any of these symptoms persist or cause concern, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and timely medical intervention can significantly improve the prognosis of cancer.
HOW DOES CANCER KILL YOU
If a tumor or cancer impairs the functioning of a vital organ, it can kill you. For instance, a tumor in the intestines can obstruct them, leading to malnutrition, while lung cancer can impair the lungs’ ability to supply oxygen, causing respiratory failure.
The presence of cancer cells in any organ increases the likelihood of infection significantly. Additionally, cancer weakens the body’s immune system, making infections difficult to control and treat, which can ultimately prove fatal.
Under normal circumstances, the body maintains a delicate balance of electrolytes. However, cancer can disrupt this balance, potentially resulting in life-threatening electrolyte imbalances. The liver and kidneys play crucial roles in detoxifying waste products and eliminating them from the bloodstream. When these organs are damaged by malignancy, their ability to perform these functions is compromised, leading to the accumulation of waste products in the body, which can be fatal.
Cancer can kill you in cases where cancer affects your bones, and large amounts of calcium can be released into the bloodstream. Elevated levels of calcium can have dangerous consequences such as unconsciousness, abnormal heart rhythms, or even cardiac arrest.
When cancer affects your bone marrow, it disrupts the production of healthy blood cells. Abnormal red blood cells are unable to deliver adequate oxygen to the body, abnormal white blood cells cannot effectively combat infections, and the lack of healthy platelets can result in hemorrhage. All of these conditions are ultimately incompatible with sustaining life.
Please note that the specific mechanisms by which cancer causes death can vary depending on the type of cancer, its location, and individual circumstances. The progression and consequences of cancer can be complex, leading to a variety of life-threatening complications. Timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and supportive care play crucial roles in managing and potentially prolonging life in individuals with cancer.
CONCLUSION
When the organ function is impaired by tumors or cancerous cells such that it disrupts its performance in some bodily processes, death is most likely to occur. However, it is advised to consult a health care professional if you notice cancerous symptoms as earlier discussed.
PEOPLE ALSO ASK:
- HOW LONG DO CANCER PATIENTS LIVE
The prognosis and life expectancy of cancer patients can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, overall health, age, response to treatment, and individual circumstances. It is challenging to provide a specific answer to the question of how long cancer patients live, as it can differ greatly from person to person.
Some types of cancer have relatively high survival rates, especially when diagnosed early and treated promptly. In these cases, many individuals can achieve long-term remission or even be considered cured. On the other hand, certain types of cancer may have lower survival rates, particularly when diagnosed at advanced stages or when they are aggressive and difficult to treat.
Advancements in cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and other emerging treatment modalities, have significantly improved outcomes and survival rates for many cancer patients.
- HOW TO PREVENT CANCER
The following points discuss different ways of preventing cancer occurrence:
- Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit the consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and red and processed meats.
- Physical Activity: Make it a habit to participate in regular physical activity or exercise. Strive to achieve a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity every week.
- Tobacco Avoidance: Avoid smoking and any form of tobacco use. If you’re a smoker, quitting is the best option to reduce the risk of various types of cancer, including lung, mouth, throat, and bladder cancer.
- Alcohol Moderation: Limit alcohol consumption. Women should generally have no more than one drink per day, while men should limit their intake to two drinks per day. It’s important to note that excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of several cancers, including liver, colorectal, and breast cancer.
- Sun Protection: Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), seek shade during peak sun hours, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds.
- Vaccinations: Get vaccinated against viruses associated with certain cancers, such as hepatitis B (linked to liver cancer) and human papillomavirus (HPV, linked to cervical, anal, and other cancers).
- Occupational and Environmental Hazards: Take necessary precautions to minimize exposure to carcinogens and hazardous substances in the workplace and the environment. Follow safety guidelines and use protective equipment when working with potentially harmful substances.
- Screening and Early Detection: Follow recommended cancer screening guidelines for early detection. This may include screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers, among others, depending on your age, sex, and family history. Regular screenings can help detect cancer at an early stage when treatment options are more effective.
- Healthy Body Weight: Maintain a healthy weight by balancing calorie intake with physical activity. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of various cancers, so aim for a body mass index (BMI) within the healthy range.
- Stress Management: Implement stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, exercise, or engaging in hobbies to manage stress effectively. Chronic stress may weaken the immune system and impact overall health.
REFERENCES
“How does cancer kill you” tsmp.com, December 13, 2022, Accessed May 23, 2023, https://www.tsmp.com.au/blog/how-does-cancer-kill-you.html
Jenney Rishe “ Cancer: How does it kill?” medicalnewstoday.com, December 22, 2020, accessed May 23, 2023, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-does-cancer-kill-you