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Q:Question: What causes gastrointestinal cancer?
A:Answer:Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers can develop due to a mix of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerFamily history and inherited conditions raise the risk, while lifestyle habits, like diets high in red meat, smoking, heavy drinking and obesity, are also major contributors.
Infections, such as Helicobacter pylori for stomach cancer or hepatitis for liver cancer, increase risk, as do chronic inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s. Age, certain environmental exposures and prior cancer treatments can also play a role. While not all causes are avoidable, adopting healthy habits and undergoing regular screenings can significantly lower your risk.
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Q:Question: How common is gastrointestinal cancer?
A:Answer:Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are among the most common and impactful types of cancers worldwide.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerTogether, they account for a substantial portion of all cancer cases. Their frequency raises awareness of the importance of early detection and preventive measures, such as cancer screenings, which can improve outcomes.
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Q:Question: What are the signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal cancer?
A:Answer:Common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal cancer include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits and jaundice, among others.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerSigns and symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer can vary based on the type and location of the cancer, but here are some common indicators:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort: Persistent pain, cramping or discomfort in the abdomen
- Bloating or swelling in the abdomen: Abdominal swelling or a feeling of fullness
- Changes in bowel habits: This includes constipation, diarrhea or a change in stool consistency or color, such as black or tarry stools, which may indicate bleeding in the GI tract
- Difficulty swallowing: Where it becomes progressively harder to swallow solid foods and, eventually, liquids
- Fatigue or weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak, often due to anemia caused by internal bleeding
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly: Feeling full after eating small amounts or a loss of interest in eating
- Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can be general signs of many GI issues, but persistent nausea or vomiting, especially if accompanied by blood
- Unintentional weight loss: Sudden, unexplained weight loss
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Q:Question: What are the different types of breast cancer?
A:Answer:Breast cancer is categorized based on where the cancer originates and whether it is invasive or noninvasive. Understanding these types helps in determining the appropriate treatment and prognosis.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerDuctal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)
This is a noninvasive cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of the breast milk duct. DCIS is considered the earliest form of breast cancer and is highly treatable. Since it hasn’t spread beyond the ducts, it is sometimes referred to as stage 0 breast cancer.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
This is the most common type of breast cancer, making up about 80% of all diagnoses. IDC begins in the milk ducts and then spreads to the surrounding breast tissue, with the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment are crucial for effectively managing IDC.
Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)
Though called a carcinoma, LCIS is not a true cancer but an indicator that a person has an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Abnormal cells are found in the lobules, which are the milk-producing glands. LCIS itself doesn't spread outside the lobules, but it raises the risk of invasive breast cancer.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
The second most common type of breast cancer, ILC, starts in the lobules and spreads to nearby tissues. ILC can be more challenging to detect on mammograms than IDC, often appearing as a thickening in the breast rather than a lump. It’s essential to diagnose and treat ILC early to prevent it from spreading further.
There are also other less common types of breast cancer, such as inflammatory breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer and HER2-positive breast cancer, each with unique characteristics and treatment approaches.
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Q:Question: How common is breast cancer?
A:Answer:Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, accounting for a significant number of cancer cases each year.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020 alone, there were approximately 2.3 million new cases of breast cancer, making it the most prevalent cancer globally. In the United States, the American Cancer Society estimates that about 1 in 8 women (12.5%) will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime.
Although breast cancer is much less common in men, they are not immune. About 1 in 726 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society.
Regular screening and early detection are crucial strategies for managing breast cancer effectively. Mammograms can help detect breast cancer early when it is most treatable, significantly improving survival rates. For example, the five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer detected at an early localized stage is around 99%, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.
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Q:Question: What is breast cancer?
A:Answer:Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can often be felt as a lump or seen on an X-ray.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerIt can develop in different areas of the breast, including the ducts, lobules or connective tissue.
Early detection through regular screening mammograms can significantly improve outcomes, and it’s important to consult a health care provider if you notice anything unusual.
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Q:Question: Can men get breast cancer?
A:Answer:Yes, men can develop breast cancer, although it is much rarer compared to women. Men have breast tissue, and factors like genetic mutations or elevated estrogen levels can increase their risk.
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Q:Question: Does a Living Will Mean the Person is not to be Resuscitated in the Event of a Cardiac and/or Respiratory Arrest?
A:Answer:No, but if you do not wish to be resuscitated in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, you must discuss this with the attending physician so that a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order can be entered into your medical records. This form must be completed by you and your physician in order to be valid and take effect.
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Q:Question: How Long are Advance Directives Valid?
A:Answer:This may vary by state law. In Illinois, these documents are valid for your lifetime, unless you change it, revoke it, or it contains a specific time limit. They become void at the time of your death or when you have rescinded them or declared them void.
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Q:Question: Why is it Important for Me to Complete Advance Directives?
A:Answer:There may be times whether because of an accident, injury or illness, you may not be able to make sound decisions about your health care. However, decisions still need to be made regarding your treatment and care; directives outline who can legally speak on your behalf and see that your wishes are carried out.