Epidemiology of cancer
Epidemiology of Cancer
The Epidemiology of Cancer (pronounced: /ˌepɪˌdiːmiˈɒlədʒi ɒv ˈkænsər/) is the study of the factors affecting cancer, as a way to infer possible trends and causes. The discipline of epidemiology is broadly divided into descriptive epidemiology and analytical epidemiology.
Etymology
The term "Epidemiology" comes from the Greek words epi, meaning 'upon', demos, meaning 'people', and logos, meaning 'study'. The term "Cancer" is derived from the Latin cancer meaning 'crab' or 'creeping ulcer'.
Descriptive Epidemiology
Descriptive Epidemiology refers to the aspect of epidemiology that involves the characterization of the distribution of health-related states or events. This includes the analysis of data on the incidence, prevalence, mortality, and morbidity rates of cancer.
Analytical Epidemiology
Analytical Epidemiology is concerned with the search for health-related causes and effects. It uses logic and reasoning to understand why certain cancers occur more frequently in certain populations, and why certain individuals are more susceptible to cancer.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for cancer can be categorized into two main groups: Genetic Factors and Environmental Factors. Genetic factors include inherited mutations, hormones, and immune conditions. Environmental factors include tobacco use, diet, physical activity, certain types of infections, and environmental pollutants.
Prevention
Cancer Prevention involves the measures that are taken to lower the chance of getting cancer. This can include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to known cancer-causing substances, and taking medicines or vaccines that can prevent cancer from developing.
Treatment
Cancer Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, potential side effects, and the patient's overall health, preferences, and outlook. It can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, stem cell transplant, and precision medicine.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epidemiology of cancer
- Wikipedia's article - Epidemiology of cancer
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