CANCER (Neoplasia)
Cancer is a non-communicable disease characterized by uncontrolled, autonomous and
abnormal proliferation of cells, which have the ability to invade surrounding tissues and
metastasize to distant organs.
Epidemiology
Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide
Approximately 80–90% cancers are due to environmental and lifestyle factors
Incidence is increasing due to:
Aging population
Urbanization
Lifestyle changes
In India:
Common in males: Lung, oral, stomach
Common in females: Breast, cervix
Higher prevalence in urban population
Agent–Host–Environmental factors.
(A) Agent
Chemical: Tobacco, asbestos, benzene
Physical: Radiation (UV, X-ray)
Biological: HPV, HBV, HCV
(B)Host
Humans (susceptible individuals)
(C)Environment
Pollution, occupational exposure, lifestyle factors
Host Factors
Age (↑ risk with increasing age)
Sex
Genetic predisposition
Hormonal factors
Immune status
Personal habits:
Smoking
Alcohol
Diet
Etiology / Causes
Tobacco (smoking & chewing)
Alcohol consumption
High-fat, low-fiber diet
Radiation exposure
Occupational carcinogens
Air, water pollution
Viral infections:
HPV → Cervical cancer
HBV/HCV → Liver cancer
Genetic mutations
Mode of Transmission
Cancer is not communicable
Some cancers are virus-associated, transmitted by:
Sexual contact (HPV)
Blood/body fluids (HBV, HCV)
Incubation Periods
No definite incubation period
Long latent period (years to decades) between exposure and disease development
Clinical Features (symptoms)
Change in wart or mole
Lump in breast or body
Persistent cough/hoarseness
Change in bowel habits
Unusual bleeding/discharge
Non-healing ulcer
Unexplained weight loss
Laboratory Diagnosis
Biopsy (Gold standard)
Cytology (Pap smear)
Tumor markers (PSA, AFP)
Imaging (CT, MRI, X-ray)
Endoscopy
Prevention and Control
(A)Primary Prevention
Avoid tobacco & alcohol
Balanced diet
Physical activity
Vaccination (HPV, HBV)
Avoid carcinogens
(B)Secondary Prevention
Screening:
Pap smear
Mammography
Colonoscopy
Early diagnosis
(C) Tertiary Prevention
Treatment and rehabilitation
Prevention of complications
Prompt Treatment
Early detection and immediate treatment
Removal of precancerous lesions
Treatment modalities:
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiotherapy
Regular follow-up