Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. It usually begins in the lungs, but can be spread to other parts of the body over time. It occurs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, often forming tumors that interfere with breathing and the overall function of the respiratory system. The majority of cases are linked to smoking, but non-smokers can also develop lung cancer.

• Symptoms: Common signs include a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing up blood, and unexplained weight loss.
• Risk Factors: Smoking, secondhand smoke exposure, asbestos, radon exposure, air pollution and certain genetic factors.
• Treatment: Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate, a small gland in men that produces seminal fluid. It is one of the most common cancers among men, particularly those over the age of 50. While it often grows slowly and may not cause significant harm in its early stages, some forms of prostate cancer can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body.

• Symptoms: Early-stage prostate cancer often shows no symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and pain in the pelvic area.
• Risk Factors: Age, family history, and genetics play a significant role in the risk of developing prostate cancer. African American men have a higher risk compared to other racial groups.
• Treatment: Options for treating prostate cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and in some cases, active surveillance if the cancer is slow-growing.

Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide but is often preventable with early detection and lifestyle changes.

• Symptoms: Common symptoms include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
• Risk Factors: A diet high in red and processed meats, lack of physical activity, smoking, and family history of colorectal cancer are major risk factors. Those over the age of 50 are encouraged to undergo regular screening.
• Treatment: Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Early detection through screenings like colonoscopies is crucial for improving survival rates.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, though it can also affect men. It begins in the cells of the breast and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated in time.

• Symptoms: The most common symptom is a lump in the breast, but changes in breast size, shape, or skin texture, and unexplained pain in the breast or nipple can also be warning signs.
• Risk Factors: Family history, hormonal factors, age, and lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Women with a genetic mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are at higher risk.
• Treatment: Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy. Regular screening through mammograms is recommended for early detection, particularly for those with a family history of the disease.