Viral factorsThe chances of becoming infected with a “cancer virus” are very remote. Over the years, several forms of virus-induced cancers have been observed in laboratory animals and there is some indication that human beings display a similar tendency toward virally transmitted cancers. Evidence that the herpes-related viruses may be involved in the development of [...]
Over the years, an emerging pattern of higher risks for cancer among persons who engage (or do not engage) in selected lifestyle variables has captured the national attention. In particular, diet, sedentary lifestyle, consumption of alcohol and cigarettes, stress, and other health-related behaviors have provided fertile ground for speculation about risks. Many of the studies [...]
The incidence of colorectal cancer in western countries ranks second only to cancer of the lung. It is unusual to see this malignancy before the age of 40 in both men and women and the incidence reaches its peak between the ages of 75 and 80 years. 50 per cent of large bowel malignancies occur [...]
Radiation after an operation is often recommended when it is either suspected or definitely known that cancer cells have been left behind. You will remember from the chapter on surgery that the chances of not being able to completely remove the cancer can be reduced by careful assessment before the operation. Postoperative radiation is more [...]
Radiation treatment is often recommended before or after surgical removal of a primary cancer. It is important that you understand what can be gained by doing this. Firstly, as I mentioned in the previous section, the addition of radiation to surgical removal of a primary cancer very rarely makes any difference to the chance of [...]
As with any treatment, you need to weigh the likely ‘benefit’ against the likely ‘cost’. These are some of the questions to which you will need answers: -What is the aim of the surgery? -What is the chance of achieving that aim? -Would there be a better chance of achieving that aim if I had [...]