Uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells is medically defined as cancer and is only second to heart disease in mortality rates in the United States, according to "Understanding Medical Surgical Nursing." Cancer can be caused by external factors that can be controlled, such as the use of tobacco products, and internal factors, such as inherited conditions, that cannot be controlled. Certain types of cancer are more common than others. Cancer Research UK states there are more than 200 kinds of cancer and more than 60 organs where it can develop.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer forms in the tissues of the breast, commonly starting in the ducts and lobules (areas that produce and deliver milk). It can occur in women and men, though breast cancer in men is rare. In 2009, the National Cancer Institute reported 1,910 new cases in men and 192,370 in women. Breast cancer detection is through breast self-exams and mammograms. When detected early, tumors can be removed through surgery and the breast can be saved. In addition to surgery, chemotherapy is often used to destroy any lingering cells.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer forms in the tissues of the lung, commonly in the air passageway. The two kinds of lung cancer are small cell lung cancer and non-small cell and are diagnosed by looking at the cells under a microscope. The National Cancer Institute's study completed in 2009 reports more than 219,000 new cases and 159,000 deaths from lung cancer.
"Understanding Medical Surgical Nursing" authors Linda Williams and Paula Hopper state the five-year survival rate for lung cancer is 14 percent; the rate jumps to 49 percent if diagnosed and treated early. The most common cause is chemicals found in tobacco smoke that can cause the DNA to mutate, leading to tumors. Surgery, such as the removal of partial pieces or the affected lung lobe, and chemotherapy are common treatments used to attempt to prolong life.
Prostate Cancer
One of the most common causes of death in men 60 and older is prostate cancer. This cancer develops in the prostate gland, but can spread in three ways, according to Williams and Hopper.
Local invasion, where the cancer spreads into the seminal vesicles, bladder or peritoneum, is one route prostate cancer can take. It can spread through the lymph system, where the cancer spreads through the nodes in the body; and it can spread through the vascular system, which allows the cancer to spread to vital organs such as the lungs and liver, and can even affect the bones.
If the cancer does not spread, treatments include removal of the prostate and radiation therapy. However, if the cancer has spread, treatments only slow the progression of the cancer.
Bone Cancer
Primary (originating in the cells of the bone) bone tumors usually develop in people younger than 30, while metastatic (spreads from another affected body system) often affects the elderly, according to Williams and Hopper. The National Cancer Institute reported an estimated 2,570 cases of bone cancer in 2009 and 1,470 deaths. Treatment of bone tumors is often surgery combined with chemotherapy or radiation.
References
- American Cancer Society: Cancer Figures 2005
- National Cancer Institute: Breast Cancer
- E Home Fellowship: Types of Cancer
- "Understanding Medical Sugical Nursing"; by Linda Williams and Paula Hopper; 2003
- Cancer Research UK
