What is cancer?
Cancer is a group of diseases in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and can invade surrounding tissue. There are more than 100 types, named for where they start (breast, lung, colon) or the cell type involved. Outcomes vary widely by type and stage at diagnosis, which is why early detection matters so much.
What are general warning signs worth checking with a doctor?
- A new lump or thickening anywhere in the body
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- A sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in a mole
- Persistent cough, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits that persist
None of these confirm cancer on their own — many have far more common, benign explanations — but they’re worth a prompt evaluation rather than waiting to see if they resolve.
What increases cancer risk?
- Age (risk generally increases over time for most cancer types)
- Family history and certain inherited genetic mutations
- Tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption
- Prolonged sun exposure without protection
- Certain infections (like HPV) linked to specific cancer types
- Obesity and low physical activity, linked to several cancer types
Why does cancer screening matter?
Routine screening (mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears, and others depending on your age and risk factors) can catch cancer before symptoms even appear, when treatment is typically simpler and more effective. Your doctor can build a personalized screening schedule based on your age, sex, and family history.
How is cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually combines imaging (ultrasound, CT, mammogram, or MRI depending on the suspected site) with a biopsy — removing a small tissue sample to confirm whether cells are cancerous and identify the specific type.
What does cancer treatment involve?
- Surgery to remove the tumor, when feasible.
- Chemotherapy using medication to kill or slow cancer cells, often combined with other treatments.
- Radiation therapy targeting cancer cells with focused radiation.
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy, newer options that work differently depending on the specific cancer type and its characteristics.
Treatment plans are highly individualized, built around cancer type, stage, and the patient’s overall health.
Everything under one roof
Imaging, lab work, biopsy, and oncology consultation are all available at Hospital CMQ, so a suspicious finding can move to diagnosis without long waits between appointments.
Have a symptom that concerns you, or due for a screening? Message us on WhatsApp to schedule an evaluation.
When should you see a doctor about a possible cancer symptom?
Any new lump, unexplained weight loss, persistent symptoms lasting more than 2–3 weeks, or a change in an existing mole or skin spot are worth a prompt evaluation — earlier assessment gives more treatment options if something serious is found.
How can cancer risk be reduced?
- Don’t smoke, and limit alcohol consumption.
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
- Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure.
- Keep up with age-appropriate screenings, even without symptoms.
- Get vaccinated against HPV, which reduces risk of several cancer types.
Reviewed by: Dra. Itzel Aguayo, General Medicine, and Dr. David Hernández, Internal Medicine, Hospital CMQ. Review date: July 2026. References: World Health Organization (WHO), American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute (NIH).