Cancer

In most people’s mind, there isn’t a diagnosis that is scarier than cancer. It is thought of as something that has no cure or treatment. The fact of the matter is that cancer is a serious and possibly life-threatening disease, but it all depends on the form that is diagnosed. Many of these types can be treated to the point where they are eliminated, or the impact is reduced. Cancer can be a heartbreaking diagnosis for both the person diagnosed and the friends and family involved.

Most Common Types of Cancer

Because cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, there are more than 100 types. The most common types include:

  • Lung

  • Melanoma

  • Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

  • Pancreatic

  • Prostate

  • Thyroid

  • Bladder

  • Breast

  • Colon and Rectal

  • Endometrial

  • Kidney

  • Leukemia

  • Liver

Cancer Causes and Prevention

Cancer is a genetic disease, so it is caused when the genes in charge of how our cells function change. Even though cancer has a lot to do with genetics, there are ways that we can try to prevent it such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding substances that are known to cause cancer, and taking medications that could help stop cancer from forming. Several risk factors could increase the chances of someone developing cancer such as:

  • Immunosuppression

  • Infectious Agents

  • Obesity

  • Radiation

  • Sunlight

  • Common Cancer Myths and Misconceptions

  • Age

  • Alcohol

  • Cancer-Causing Substances

  • Chronic Inflammation

  • Tobacco

  • Diet

  • Hormones

The risk of getting cancer can be increased or decreased by many things in our genes, lifestyle, and simply the environment around us.

Cancer Treatment

The many types of cancer treatments that could be offered depend on the kind of cancer that you have and how developed it is. Some people may only have one cancer treatment option while others could have several more. The types of cancer treatments are:

  • Targeted Therapy

  • Hormone Therapy

  • Stem Cell Transplant

  • Precision Medicine

  • Surgery

  • Radiation Therapy

  • Chemotherapy

  • Immunotherapy

When thinking about treatment, you may feel incredibly overwhelmed and confused. Talking to your doctor about possible options can help you make a decision that you feel confident towards. At High Plains Surgical Associates we are well versed in the care of many forms of cancer and work in close collaboration with the specialists needed to care for you appropriately. If you have been diagnosed with cancer or have a concern that you may have cancer, please contact our office where Dr. Sara Hartsaw will work diligently to provide world-class care for you and your loved one.

Side Effects

Side effects from cancer treatment vary from person to person. Possible factors like the type of therapy, frequency of treatment, age, and other health conditions can play into the side effects that you may experience. Common side effects include:

  • Hair Loss

  • Memory or Concentration Problems

  • Mouth and Throat Problems

  • Nausea and Vomiting

  • Pain

  • Skin and Nail Changes

  • Sleep Problems

  • Anemia

  • Appetite Loss

  • Bleeding and Bruising

  • Constipation

  • Delirium

  • Diarrhea

  • Edema

  • Fatigue

Call and make an appointment with High Plains Surgical Associates if you have any concerns or symptoms of cancer. Dr. Sara Hartsaw would be more than happy to help and answer any questions that you might have.