infiniteperspective.net

Cancer is a scary word. More and more people are getting it. Since it has been a well accepted fact that the earlier the cancer is detected, the better are the chances of survival, knowing the signs and symptoms that warrant a trip to the doctor is vital. That is why cancer awareness is very important. As I celebrate each day of victorious battle against this evil, it’s about time I share the little practical knowledge I’ve gained from living with this disease. Before going any further, however, let me clarify that what I write here is not meant to be used as a substitute for proper medical advice. All that is written comes from a survivor’s personal standpoint, supplemented by readings from various books and journals.

Elaine Marieb, in her book Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology, writes that neoplasms or new growths “develop when controls of the cell cycle and cell division malfunction.” Malignant cancer cells “grow relentlessly and may become killers.” They also have the capability of metastasis—breaking away from the parent mass and spreading to distant parts of the body. Environmental as well as genetic and personal factors can cause cancer. Carcinogens include exposure to radiation, tobacco, certain viral infections and chemicals.

So how do we detect cancer? Sadly, most are discovered in their late stages when the symptoms have become unbearable. Because early detection means better chances of conquering the disease, it is important to heed certain signs that merit a visit to the doctor. Dr. O.P. Jaggi, in his book Cancer: Causes, Prevention and Treatment, outlines the following symptoms “which should arouse suspicion of the disease”:

1.A lump or hard area in the breast [or anywhere in the body].
2.A change in a wart or mole.
3.A persistent change in digestive and bowel habits, for example, constipation.
4.A persistent cough or hoarseness in a smoker [or even a non-smoker].
5.Bleeding per vagina at times other than the menstrual.
6.Non-injury bleeding from the surface of the skin, mouth of any other bodily orifice.
7.Any ulcer that does not get well.
8.Unexplained loss of weight.
9.Unexplained diminished or lost appetite.
10.Unexplained low-grade fever.

Now let’s say the diagnosis is in. After all the preliminary tests, the doctor says what you don’t like to hear. What do you do then? Here are some helpful tips:
1.Be calm. Keeping your cool will allow you to think and make sound decisions. Prepare yourself mentally for the tough battle ahead.
2.Ask. Be very direct with your doctor. Knowing more about your disease will give you some degree of control. Some important questions include: How long do I have to live? What are my treatment options and their possible side-effects? How much would these cost? Make sure that you choose a very good doctor and a very good hospital.
3.Keep appointments with your physician religiously. Make sure that you stick to your chemotherapy or radiotherapy schedule. Do not easily be swayed by alternative cancer medicines. Should you decide on taking them, make sure that they have scientific bases.
4.All family members, relatives and friends must understand the situation. Cancer cannot be won without the necessary family support.
5.Pray. No matter the advances in medical oncology, all cancer patients still need a miracle. Battling the Big C is not all medical. It is as much a spiritual battle as anything else. I believe that one’s ultimate weapon is prayer.

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