Topic > Cancer Genesis and Cancer Treatments: An Overview

The human body is made up of trillions of living cells all working together. Normally, these cells grow, divide and die. However, sometimes the process is handled poorly; and during this period uncontrolled cell growth and division occurs. Uncontrolled growth and division leads to tumors, which usually lead to cancer. However, not all tumors lead to cancer. Furthermore, the word cancer is a generic name given to over 100 diseases, which begin with uncontrolled cell growth. If these growths are left untreated, they can cause serious illness and even death. In the United States, half of men and one-third of women will develop cancer in their lifetime. The risk of developing cancer can be reduced by changing your lifestyle. A better diet (Ames, 2001; Bergström et al., 2001), daily physical activity (Kampert et al., 1996), limiting sun exposure (Elwood et al., 1997), quitting smoking (Peto et al. ., 2000) and reduce excessive alcohol consumption (Tsugane et al., 1999); all add up to a reduced chance of developing cancer. Furthermore, the earlier cancer is diagnosed and treated, the less likely the individual is to die from it. Therefore, the combination of early diagnosis, treatment and lifestyle changes can prevent the onset of cancer. Genesis of CancerCancer begins when a cell begins to grow out of control. All cancers begin with out-of-control growth due to damaged DNA. DNA is the genetic material present in every cell, containing instructions and blueprints for cell growth, division and death. Normally, when DNA damage occurs, the cell has a mechanism to repair the damage or initiate its own death. However, in cancer cells, DNA damage is not repaired, nor does the cell perform activities involving regulatory, metabolic, and healing processes. Electric currents occurring at the site of injuries such as bone fractures are considered a sign of healing energy. In salamanders this contributes to the processes involved in limb regeneration” (O'Clock, 1999). Another type of energy medicine is Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine. The therapy restores harmony between the body, mind and forces of nature to cure cancer and other diseases. The therapy requires exercise, herbal remedies, lifestyle changes and meditation. Practitioners of Ayurveda strengthen and purify their body and mind and increase their spiritual awareness. A recent clinical study, conducted by the National Institutes of Health, showed that in 79% of cases, patients with chronic diseases had significant improvements after Ayurvedic treatment (Treatments, 2011).