What is Cancer?
Cancer is a disease that affects many people worldwide and is caused by uncontrolled cellular reproduction. When cells reproduce at an abnormal rate, they begin to accumulate mutations that cause them to become malignant. These mutated cells then divide uncontrollably and invade adjacent tissues. If left untreated, cancer can spread throughout the body causing damage to organs and bones. There are three types of cancers: carcinoma, sarcoma, and leukemia. Carcinomas are tumors that originate in the epithelial lining of glands, blood vessels, and skin. Sarcomas are tumors that originate in connective tissue and muscle. Leukemia is a type of cancer that originates in white blood cells.
A person who has cancer may experience pain, fever, weight loss, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, coughing, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. Treatment options vary depending on the type of cancer. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies are some treatment options.
The National Cancer Institute estimates that 1 in 2 men and women will develop cancer at some point in their lives. In 2017, about 1,685,210 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the United States and about 595,690 deaths occurred due to cancer. Lung cancer was the leading cause of death among both men and women, while prostate cancer was the second-leading cause of death among men.
According to the American Cancer Society, smoking is the primary risk factor for lung cancer. Other factors that increase the risk of developing lung cancer include exposure to radon gas, asbestos, heavy metals, air pollution, and infection with certain viruses. Many different types of cancers have been linked to environmental exposures, including colon cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, and leukemia.
Food for Cancer Patients
The followings are the foods for cancer patients
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Whole grains
As per the best hematologists in India, whole grains have been shown to reduce the risk of several different types of cancers. Whole grains are rich in fiber, B vitamins, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, vitamin E, folate, and phytochemicals. These nutrients work together to help prevent certain types of cancers.
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Beans
Beans are packed full of protein, fiber, folate, and iron. These nutrients can help lower cholesterol levels, improve cardiovascular function, and even fight fatigue. Beans are also high in antioxidants, which may help protect against some types of cancer.
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Nuts
Nuts are filled with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They can also help boost immunity and keep blood sugar levels steady. Walnuts are particularly good for people who suffer from diabetes.
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Soybeans
Soybeans are loaded with protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s have been linked to reduced risks of heart disease and stroke. They’re also great for helping with weight loss.
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Berries
Berries are bursting with antioxidants and flavonoids—nutrients that may help fight free radicals and slow down the aging process. Blueberries and strawberries are especially high in these nutrients.
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Apples
Apples are high in fiber and pectin, two substances that can help lower cholesterol. They’re a great source of Vitamin C and beta-carotene, both of which can help protect against cancer.
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Salmon
Salmon is a fantastic source of lean protein and healthy fat. Eating salmon at least twice a week can help lower bad LDL cholesterol while increasing good HDL cholesterol.
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