Why awareness matters
Awareness can encourage people to understand risk factors, notice persistent changes, use recommended screening services, and talk with qualified healthcare professionals.
ABOUT CANCER
Understanding cancer starts with good information.
Cancer is a broad group of diseases in which abnormal cells can grow without normal control and may spread to other parts of the body. Learning the basics can help people ask better questions and seek medical care when something feels unusual.
THE BASICS
What is cancer?
Our bodies are made of cells that normally grow, divide and are replaced in an orderly way. Cancer can develop when changes in cells disrupt that normal process. Some cancers form solid tumors, while others, such as many blood cancers, affect cells in the blood or immune system.
Every cancer is different
Cancer type, stage, biology and a person's overall health can all influence diagnosis and treatment. Information on the internet should never be used to replace an individual medical assessment.
A simple message
Do not panic about every symptom, but do not ignore changes that are unusual for you or that persist. A healthcare professional can help determine what they mean.