top of page

Cancer Intro


Cancer can start when certain cells in the body begin to grow in an uncontrolled way. This often happens because of changes in the genes that help manage how cells divide and repair themselves. Various factors can contribute to these changes, such as our genetic makeup, what we’re exposed to in the environment, or even our lifestyle choices. Generally, cancer progresses through several stages: Stage 0 (in situ) means abnormal cells are present but haven’t spread yet; Stages I to III (typically) show increasing tumor size and some local spread; and Stage IV reveals that cancer cells have traveled to distant parts of the body or organs. When metastases occur, it can complicate treatment and have a significant impact on the overall outlook for recovery.

Sarcoma

Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that arises from connective tissues, such as bone, muscle, fat, nerves, blood vessels, and cartilage.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, typically caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.

Precision Medicine Detection Methods

Precision medicine aims to customize treatment according to the unique genetic and molecular profile of a patient’s disease, particularly in cancer. Various advanced detection methods facilitate this personalized approach by analyzing genetic mutations, protein expression, and genomic alterations.

Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell located in the bone marrow that produces antibodies to help combat infections. In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably, overcrowding healthy blood cells and creating abnormal antibodies (called M-proteins) that may lead to organ damage.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. It arises from lymphocytes—white blood cells that help fight infections. There are two main categories:

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. The most common form is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which arises from the main liver cells called hepatocytes. Other, less common types include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and angiosarcoma (cancer of the blood vessels in the liver).

Brain Cancer

Brain cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells within the brain or its surrounding structures. Tumors can be primary (originating in the brain) or secondary/metastatic (spread from other parts of the body). Primary brain tumors include both benign and malignant types, with gliomas being the most common malignant form. Gliomas include astrocytomas, glioblastomas (GBM), oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas. Other types include meningiomas, medulloblastomas, and pituitary tumors.

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive and often deadly disease that starts in the tissues of the pancreas—a gland situated behind the stomach that assists in digestion and blood sugar regulation. The most prevalent type is pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which develops from the exocrine cells lining the pancreatic ducts. Less common types include neuroendocrine tumors, which usually grow more slowly.

Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancers represent a diverse group of malignancies that arise in the tissues and organs of the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat, larynx (voice box), nose, sinuses, and salivary glands. The majority of these cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which originate from the lining of the mucosal surfaces. Key risk factors encompass tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly for oropharyngeal cancers. Additional factors include poor oral hygiene, occupational exposures (e.g., to asbestos or wood dust), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Symptoms vary based on the cancer’s location but may include a persistent sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, a lump in the neck, or mouth sores that fail to heal.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a prevalent type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a small organ in men responsible for producing seminal fluid. This cancer usually grows slowly and often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. However, some varieties can be aggressive and spread quickly.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer ranks among the top causes of cancer-related fatalities globally. It develops in lung tissues, typically in the cells that line the airways. There are two primary types:

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), originates in the kidneys, which filter blood and produce urine. It ranks among the top ten most common cancers in both men and women. The majority of kidney cancers are renal cell carcinomas, with clear cell RCC being the most common subtype. Other, less common subtypes include papillary, chromophobe, and collecting duct carcinomas. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, genetic conditions (such as von Hippel-Lindau disease), and long-term dialysis.

Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, also referred to as gastric cancer, originates in the lining of the stomach. The most prevalent type is adenocarcinoma, which starts in the mucus-producing cells of the stomach. Other, less common types include lymphomas, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and neuroendocrine tumors.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, though it can also occur in men. It begins in the breast tissue, most often in the milk ducts (ductal carcinoma) or lobules (lobular carcinoma). It may be invasive (spreading to surrounding tissue) or non-invasive (in situ).

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer originates in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It is often referred to as a “silent killer” because early-stage symptoms are vague or absent, leading to a frequent diagnosis at an advanced stage. Common symptoms include bloating, pelvic pain, difficulty eating, and urinary urgency.

Contact me for a complimentary, confidential initial consultation.

I'm here to support your oncology treatment journey

© 2025 Hippocrates Oncology Consulting, Hippocrates Consulting LLC

  • White LinkedIn Icon
  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Hippocrates offers patient advocacy services, including, providing guidance, support, and resources to help you navigate your cancer journey. However, Hippocrates’ consultants are not a licensed healthcare professionals, and neither Hippocrates nor its consultants provide medical services, diagnoses, treatment, or medical advice. Any information or assistance is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns or decisions.

bottom of page