Oncology doctors have to admit that they do not know why some people get cancer and others do not. However, certain risk factors can increase an individual’s chance of getting the disease. These risk factors include the following:
* Age and Lifestyle: Most cancers occur in adults who are 65 years old or older. That is because the cancer takes a long time to develop. If a person smokes or drinks in excess, cancer can develop over a period of time.
* Family History: Genetics play a role in developing certain cancers. Genetic mutations can be passed from one generation to the next. Patients who have a family background of cancer are often referred to genetic examination.
* The Environment: Direct exposure to certain toxins can increase risk as well. These toxins may take the form of tobacco smoke or certain workplace chemicals, such as benzene or asbestos.
Making a Diagnosis
Oncology doctors explain that diagnosing cancer follows detection of the disease. For instance, some patients may notice some body abnormality such as a lump. Other times, a patient’s lab results might reveal a suspicious irregularity. Diagnoses are made using a variety of exam methods, including biopsy, radiographs, PET scans, CT scans, or MRI.
Staging the Disease
If a biopsy is performed, for example, the patient’s tissue is sent to check and confirm the pathology, and then a diagnosis can be made. Once the diagnosis is rendered, the cancer is then staged, which means the doctor sees if the cancer has metastasized or spread. If the cancer has spread, then he checks to see what areas of the body are affected. Cancer stages are denoted from I to IV, with the lower stages indicating less metastasis.
Types of Therapies
Treatment for the disease depends primarily on the specific diagnosis and the stage of the cancer. Therefore, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy. Contact Business Name for more information. You can also follow them on Google+ for more information.