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Cancer
Cancer is the most common cause of death in Australia, representing
over a quarter of all deaths in 1995. Approximately 60,000
new cancers are diagnosed in Australia each year.
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal
cells. Normally, the body's cells reproduce themselves in
an orderly manner so that growth occurs and damaged or worn-out
tissues are replaced. Sometimes, however, cells continue growing
into a mass of tissue called a tumour which can be
benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Benign tumours may interfere with body function and therefore
may, require surgical removal, but they do not invade neighbouring
tissue and they are seldom life-threatening. Malignant tumours
are always dangerous. Malignant cells can build up into a
lump or tumour. In some cases, the malignant cells can spread
to other parts of the body through the blood or lymph system.
New cancers formed in this way are called secondaries or metastases.
What are the signs or symptoms?
The signs of cancer are different depending on the type of
cancer. Please click on the cancer type you are interested
in for information about the possible signs of breast
cancer, cervical cancer,
prostate cancer, bowel
cancer, lung cancer, melanoma
and leukemia.
How can I prevent cancer?
Some cancers can be prevented by changing behaviours, including:
- limiting exposure to the sun
- not smoking
- limiting alcohol intake
- increasing intake of vegetables and fruit.
Detecting cancer earlier can lead to more successful treatment
and cure or to longer survival. Some cancers can be detected
early by having regular tests, for example:
- pap tests can detect early changes in the cervix that
can be treated before cervical cancer develops
- mammograms, or X-rays to the
breast, can detect breast cancers at an early stage when
they are still not able to felt by a physical examination.
How can cancer be treated?
There are a number of different types of treatment for cancer.
The main groups are:
- Surgery - This is the removal of the cancer.
- Chemotherapy - This is a course of drugs given to kill
or control the cancer cells.
- Radiotherapy - This is a course of high dose X-rays to
kill or control the cancer.
The type of treatment recommended depends on the type of
cancer and individual circumstances. Please click on the cancer
type you are interested in for more information on how cancer
can be treated: breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer,
bowel cancer, lung cancer, melanoma and leukemia.
Where can I get more information?
Talk to your General Practitioner or contact:
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