Areas of expertise / Oncology

Oncology

What are we talking about?

Cancer is not one disease, but a collection of related diseases with the potential to develop in various parts of the body. At its core, cancer originates from genetic changes within our body’s cells, which govern their normal functions. These genetic alterations can result in abnormalities that foster the development of cancer cells (1).

Prevalence

The prevalence of cancer has surged in recent years, driven by aging populations, lifestyle shifts, and environmental factors, with projections indicating a 47% increase in new cases by 2040 compared to 2020 (2,3).

Breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers rank among the most prevalent forms of the disease. The global rate of new cancer cases stands at 442.4 per 100,000 individuals annually, while the death rate reaches 158.3 per 100,000 annually, emphasizing the urgent need for effective treatments. Approximately 39.5% of men and women are expected to face a cancer diagnosis at some point in their lives, underlining the pervasive impact of the disease and the necessity for comprehensive control measures to mitigate its effects (1,2,3).

The role of oral nutritional supplements

Up to 80% of cancer patients experience malnutrition at some point during their illness, which negatively affects their response to treatment and their quality of life. Ensuring adequate nutrition during treatment is critical, as good nutrition can help reduce side effects, improve tolerance to therapy and strengthen the immune system (3).

Frequent questions

1. What percentage of cancer cases is estimated to be preventable through healthy habits?

The World Health Organization estimates that 30-50% of cancers can be prevented through healthy habits. Currently, Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, a European Union initiative, advocates for the adoption of measures such as reducing smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, minimizing sun exposure, and promoting a diverse and healthy diet along with regular physical activity (2).

2. What are the main risk factors associated with cancer?

Cancer risk factors, according to leading cancer institutes and societies, range from lifestyle choices such as smoking, drinking, and poor diet to environmental factors including UV radiation and exposure to carcinogens. Genetic predisposition, infections, and age also play a role. However, making lifestyle changes and taking preventive steps can significantly lower cancer risk (1,2,3).

3. What is the significance of maintaining a healthy weight and good nutrition during the cancer treatment process?

Maintaining a healthy weight and optimal nutrition during cancer treatment is crucial. This strengthens the immune system, enhances treatment tolerance, and optimizes its effectiveness. Additionally, it helps prevent muscle loss and physical decline, improving quality of life and facilitating recovery after medical procedures. A balanced diet can also reduce the risk of complications and improve wound healing (3).

Bibliography

  1. National Cancer Institute. About cancer. 2020.
  2. World Health Organization. Cancer. 2022.
  3. American Cancer Society. Cancer Risk and Prevention. 2024

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