• Carcinomas: Originate in the skin or tissues that line or cover internal organs (breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, etc.)
• Central nervous system (CNS) cancers: Begin in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord (glioblastoma and astrocytoma)
• Germ cell tumors: Arise from the reproductive cells (testicular cancer and ovarian cancer)
• Leukemias: Cancers of the blood-forming tissues, such as bone marrow. These lead to large numbers of abnormal blood cells entering the bloodstream (acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), etc.)
• Lymphomas: Begin in the cells of the immune system. They typically form in lymph nodes or lymphatic tissue (Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma)
• Myelomas: Cancers that originate in the plasma cells of bone marrow (multiple myeloma, etc.)
• Sarcomas: Originate in connective or supportive tissues such as bone, cartilage, fat, muscle or blood vessels (bone cancer, fat tissue cancer, etc.)

Each of these types can have various subtypes, further expanding the total number of cancers. The diverse nature of cancers allows for tailored treatment options, contributing to more effective and personalized care.

• Hormone therapy: Blocks or removes hormones that fuel certain cancers, like breast and prostate cancer
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer (Includes checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy)
• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells; Can be external or internal (brachytherapy)
• Surgery: Removes cancerous tissue from the body and is often used for localized cancers.
• Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth and is usually less harmful to normal cells compared to chemotherapy.
• Stem cell transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells and is often used for blood-related cancers like leukemia.

These treatments can be used alone or in combination, depending on the patient's condition, to maximize effectiveness and improve outcomes.

• Environmental factors:
  • Chemical Exposures: Long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos.
  • Radiation: UV rays and high radiation levels can damage DNA.
  • Tobacco smoke: A leading cause, including second-hand smoke.
• Genetic factors:
  • Inherited mutations: Certain genes, like BRCA1/2, can increase cancer risk.
  • Spontaneous mutations: Random DNA changes during cell division.
• Lifestyle factors:
  • Diet: Poor diet choices can increase cancer risk.
  • Physical Inactivity: Linked to higher cancer risks.
  • Obesity: Associated with several types of cancer.
• Pathogens:
  • Bacteria: Helicobacter pylori can lead to stomach cancer.
  • Viruses: HPV and hepatitis B/C are linked to cervical and liver cancers.

Understanding these causes can guide preventive measures and reduce cancer risk.

If close relatives have had heart disease, particularly at a younger age, your likelihood of developing it may be higher. But remember, genetics are just one piece of the puzzle. You can offset many risks with lifestyle changes like regular exercise and routine preventive care.

Taking steps to improve your heart health can powerfully impact your overall well-being. The good news is that small, consistent changes can make a big difference.

• Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats like fish or nuts. Reduce salt, sugar and saturated fat intake to protect your heart.
• Get regular checkups: Work with your doctor to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and other key indicators of heart health.
• Manage stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like yoga, deep breathing or meditation into your routine to support your heart and mental health.
• Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the best ways to improve your heart health and reduce risks.
• Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking or cycling, most days of the week. To make this habit sustainable, find activities you enjoy.