What is Cancer? A Guide from Canopy Imaging
The best place to seek accurate information about cancer is from a Specialist Oncologist, Haematologist, or your Clinical Nurse. These experts have in-depth knowledge of the many cancer types, also known as tumour streams.
However, understanding the basics of cancer can also help you make sense of medical information, prepare questions for your care team, and feel more in control during what can be an overwhelming time.
Hopefully, the following guide can answer some of the questions you may have about what cancer is, the different types, and what a diagnosis may mean for you.
What is cancer?
Cancer is a disease of the cells in the body. Everyone’s body is made up of millions of cells. Cells normally grow, divide and are renewed in a balanced and regular way. Cancer is caused when this process is disrupted, and the cells grow in an uncontrolled way. A solid group of cells is called a tumour, growth or mass.
A tumour can be benign or malignant. Benign means that while the tumour may grow, it won't spread into different parts of the body. Malignant tumours are cancerous tumours that can go on to invade nearby tissues and spread to other areas or parts of the body.
<h2>Primary and secondary cancer</h2>
The place where cancer starts is known as the primary site or primary cancer. If the cancer spreads to another area, this is known as a secondary cancer or metastatic disease. It’s important to remember that cancer isn't contagious.
<h2>What are the different types of cancer?</h2>
There are more than 100 different types of cancer. Each type is classified by the type of cell the cancer originates from - for example, a breast cell, a lung cell, etc. Each type of cancer generally falls into one of five categories:
- Carcinomas are cancers that come from cells that line a body surface, or the lining of a gland - for example, the skin, or the lining of the gut, mouth, cervix, airways
- Sarcomas are cancers that arise from cells which make up the connective tissues, such as bones or muscles. For example, an osteosarcoma is a cancer of bone tissue
- Leukaemia is a cancer that develops in the bone marrow, affecting developing blood cells, predominantly the white blood cells
- Lymphoma are cancers that develop in the lymphatic system. The tumours cause swelling in the lymph nodes and other parts of the body
- Myeloma are cancers that affect the plasma cells. These cells then multiply, causing tumours commonly found in the bone marrow and on surfaces of different bones in the body
What is oncology?
Oncology is the area of medicine involving cancer. An oncologist is a doctor who specialises in treating cancer, either with chemotherapy (medical oncologist) or radiation (radiation oncologist). Other doctors are involved in treating cancer, such as surgeons, palliative care specialists (doctors who specialise in treating symptoms from cancer that cannot be cured), and general physicians (who often are involved in the diagnosis of cancer).
If you have cancer, you are likely to be referred to some of these doctors depending on the type of treatment that is advised. The Oncology Service also consists of specialised nurses, therapists and social workers, as the diagnosis of cancer can affect people and their families in many ways. The Oncology Department also works alongside hospices and the Cancer Society, which provides support to people with a cancer diagnosis.
What is haematology?
Haematology is the study of diseases that affect the blood and bone marrow. These can be malignant (e.g., Leukaemia/lymphoma) or non-malignant (e.g., Haemophilia). It involves the study of the immune, blood clotting, and vascular systems.
Understanding cancer is the first step
A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but knowledge is a powerful tool in navigating your journey. By understanding cancer, the different types, and the role of oncology and haematology, you can approach your treatment with greater confidence and clarity. Remember, your healthcare team is there to support you every step of the way, from diagnosis through to treatment and beyond.
For more personalised guidance, contact Canopy Imaging today to speak with our specialist team and explore your diagnostic options.
If you have any further questions, please refer to our FAQs or view this episode of Canopy TV – Cancer Explained.