Fabi Powell
“When cancer happens, you don’t put life on hold. You live now.”
What is Cancer?
Cancer is the uncontrolled multiplication of cells. When cells are damaged, usually due to aging or exposures like tobacco smoke, they can multiply and ignore the body’s attempts to control them. The initial lump of cells is called the “primary tumour.” This can invade areas around it, replacing normal tissue with cancer cells.
Cancer can originate in any part of the body. Common sites of primary tumours include the breast, prostate, skin (melanoma) and bowel. Each cancer type is different, requiring individual treatment.
Through the body’s lymphatic or circulatory (blood) system, the cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body, a process called “metastases.”
What is An Oncologist?
An oncologist is a specialist in the management of cancer and its complications. Cancer is an awful diagnosis, and having a specialist who can assist in navigating and supporting you on your journey is a must. Your oncologist will provide information on evidence-based treatment options, conduct regular clinical reviews and liaise with other specialists involved in your care, including radiation oncologists and surgeons. Examples of conditions treated by an oncologist include cancers of the breast, bowel, prostate and skin.
Treatment options provided by an oncologist include:
Chemotherapy: medication given at regular intervals (cycles) that aims to kill cancer cells, slowing or stopping growth
Immunotherapy: medication given at regular intervals (cycles) that aims to stimulate your immune system to kill cancer cells
Targeted therapy: medication given usually in tablet form that targets specific aspects of a cancer
Please note that not every cancer responds to every kind of treatment. Speak to your oncologist for more information.