Cancer can occur due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Common causes include tobacco use, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, poor dietary habits, prolonged sun exposure, radiation, viral infections such as HPV and Hepatitis B, chronic inflammation, and certain hereditary gene mutations (BRCA1, BRCA2, etc.). Exposure to industrial chemicals, pollution, and family history of cancer also increases risk. Understanding these factors allows individuals to make informed lifestyle choices and seek timely screening.

While many cancers remain silent in early stages, certain warning signs should never be ignored. These include unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, prolonged fever, abnormal lumps, changes in bowel or bladder habits, chronic cough or hoarseness, non-healing wounds, unusual bleeding or discharge, difficulty swallowing, persistent indigestion, and changes in moles or skin patches. Regular self-checks and prompt medical evaluation of such symptoms play a crucial role in early diagnosis.

Importance of Cancer Screening

Cancer screening helps detect disease before symptoms appear. Common screening tests include:

• Mammography for breast cancer
• Pap smear & HPV testing for cervical cancer
• Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test for prostate cancer
• Low-dose CT scan for lung cancer in high-risk individuals
• Oral cavity examination for oral cancers, especially in tobacco users

These tests help identify precancerous changes or very early-stage cancers when treatment is most successful.

Preventive oncology emphasizes lifestyle changes such as avoiding tobacco and alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular physical activity, sun protection, stress management, and adequate sleep. Vaccinations like HPV and Hepatitis B significantly reduce the risk of cervical and liver cancers.