Cancer Sourcebook (Health Reference), 9th Edition

Every year, nearly 1.6 million Americans receive a diagnosis of cancer. Cancer is not a single disease, however. There are many different diseases that all share one common characteristic: Some of the body’s cells do not die when they should. Instead they continue to grow and divide. Through this process, cancer cells can damage the body’s tissues and organs, leading to a broad array of symptoms and even death. The cellular changes that lead to the development of cancer are sometimes inherited but they may also result from environmental or lifestyle factors. Although the survival rates for many types of cancer have improved in recent years and innovative treatment protocols are being developed, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States.

Cancer Sourcebook, Ninth Edition provides updated information about common types of cancer affecting the head, neck, central nervous system, endocrine system, lungs, digestive and urinary tracts, blood cells, immune system, skin, bones, and other body systems. It explains how people can reduce their risk of cancer by adopting a healthy lifestyle, addressing issues related to cancer risk, and taking advantage of screening exams. Various treatment choices, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and biological therapies – are discussed, and facts are provided about cancer clinical trials and other ongoing research. And also it talks about life after cancer treatment and healthy food choices. The book concludes with a glossary of related terms, a directory of national cancer organizations, and suggestions for finding community-based resources.