Cancer is a frightening disease as it can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or social status. It’s okay to be overwhelmed. Take a moment. Breathe. Get informed and fight back.
In essence, cancer is formed when abnormal cells grow rapidly beyond their usual boundaries, invading other parts of the body. When abnormal cells spread throughout the body, this is called metastases.
A combination of genetic factors and external agents cause this fast-paced growth of abnormal cells. External agents are divided into three categories:
• Physical carcinogens (UV and ionizing radiation from occupational or medical diagnostic imaging)
• Chemical carcinogens (asbestos, food contaminants, arsenic, etc.)
• Biological carcinogens (infections from certain viruses, bacteria, or parasites)
While cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, it is preventable, treatable, and even curable.
Many types of cancer have a high chance of being cured if detected early and treated adequately. Therefore, making healthier lifestyle decisions helps increase survival chances for cancer patients. In fact, 30% to 50% of cancers can be prevented by leading healthy lifestyles.
The good news is that most of these common types of cancer have high rates of curability when detected early and treated adequately. Regular visits to your team of doctors, testing, and screening are essential for early detection.
While treatment varies depending on the type of cancer diagnosed, the main goal is curing or stopping the progression of the cancer in order to considerably prolong the patient’s life. Typically, treatment involves one or more of the following: surgery, radiotherapy, and/or chemotherapy. For increased chances of beating cancer, treatment should also integrate other types of support from a team of specialized care professionals such as ourselves.
Our multidisciplinary approach to treating and supporting patients with chronic illnesses truly makes a difference not only in helping patients feel better but also in reducing the stress levels that come with managing and living with such a disease.
At the Alivia Network —which includes Farmacias Plaza, Alivia Specialty Pharmacy, and Alivia Compounding Pharmacy—, we understand how confusing and worrisome it can be to be diagnosed and to live with cancer. This is why our team of healthcare professionals are here for you every step of the way, helping you with your needs and concerns. Our experts are available to answer all your questions. Please send us a message so we can further assist you.
