HEALTH + WELLNESS
WHY CANCER AWARENESS SAVES LIVES
FOR MANY OF US, JUST THE FLEETING THOUGHT OF CANCER IS TERRIFYING. BUT WHAT ABOUT THOSE PEOPLE ACTIVELY LIVING WITH IT? SEPTEMBER MARKS AN IMPORTANT MONTH IN THE UK’ S HEALTH CALENDAR, HIGHLIGHTING AWARENESS OF BLOOD, CHILDHOOD, GYNAECOLOGICAL, HEREDITARY, THYROID AND UROLOGICAL CANCERS SPECIFICALLY. WITH CANCER RESPONSIBLE FOR AROUND ONE IN FOUR UK DEATHS AND OVER 1,000 PEOPLE DIAGNOSED DAILY IN THE UK, INCREASED AWARENESS IS NOT SIMPLY BENEFICIAL- IT’ S VITAL. POLLY HUMPHRIS LOOKS INTO WHY EARLY DETECTION AND OPEN CONVERSATIONS CAN MAKE A LIFE- SAVING DIFFERENCE.
So, what is cancer? In layman’ s terms, it’ s a disease of the cells – there are 37.2 trillion cells in our body, of which there are 200 different cell types, and most cell types can develop forms of cancer. Most cells in the body are able to divide and make more copies of themselves: the process of cell division, which is a constant process that’ s essential for wellbeing, but also has to be controlled. If cells begin to divide uncontrollably, escaping from their normal mechanisms and creating lots more cells, this creates a mass of cells, which then becomes a tumour. Now, let’ s break down the types of cancer that Cancer Research UK( cancerresearchuk. org) includes on its Cancer Awareness Calendar during September specifically.
Blood Cancer
Blood cancers affect the production and function of blood cells and include types like leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Common symptoms to look out for include unusual tiredness, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, night sweats and bruising or bleeding easily. Swollen lymph nodes( glands in your neck, armpit and groin), bone pain and shortness of breath can also appear. These symptoms can be caused by many things, so don’ t panic, but if they do persist, it’ s a good idea to speak to your GP.
Childhood Cancer
Childhood cancer is rare- in the UK around 1,838 children( aged 0- 14 years) get diagnosed with cancer each year- but it’ s important for parents to be aware of signs so it can be treated early. Key things to watch out for include ongoing tiredness, unexplained lumps or swellings, frequent infections, easy bruising, lasting pain( especially in bones) or sudden changes in vision. Also, keep an eye on persistent headaches or weight loss. Childhood cancer is often treatable and early support makes a big difference- trust your instincts and don’ t hesitate to seek help.
Gynaecological Cancer
Cancers that start in the female reproductive system are called gynaecological cancers and can affect women, some transgender men and non-binary people assigned female at birth. There are five gynaecological cancers- womb, ovarian, cervical, vulval and vaginal- so knowing your body and noticing changes and abnormal feelings in these areas can make a big difference. Common
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