Different types of carcinoma affect millions of people all over the world. Though most forms are potentially lethal, due to the tendency to spread, they are also treatable, especially if found early. However, as always, prevention is a better option than treatment, and understanding the causes of this form of cancer can help someone avoid it altogether.
Background
Carcinoma is the name used for a specific type of malignant cancer which affects epithelial cells. Epithelial cells are the cells that make up much of the lining in cavities and surfaces of different structures inside the body, as well as many glands. These cells appear in large interconnected structures in the body know as tissues. Due to the many different areas inside the where epithelial cells and tissues exist, there are many different kinds of carcinoma.
Types
There are many different forms of carcinoma, due to the many different parts of the body that these malignant cancer cells can appear. Basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer, is the most common type of cancer, and is one of the least life-threatening. Gastric carcinoma is another form of affects the epithelial cells in the stomach. Squamous cell lung carcinoma is yet another type of cancer that affects the cells of the lungs as well as the bronchi.
Causes of Basal Cell Carcinoma
The powerful ultraviolet rays of the sun are most often to blame for the development of basal cell carcinoma--though there is a rare genetic disorder, known as Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome, which can cause this cancer to develop in some people. The main risk factors with regards to this cancer are low melanin content in the skin, as well as prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays without adequate protection.
Causes of Gastric Carcinoma
Gastric carcinoma has been found to have a specific cause in most instances. This cause is the occurrence of the Epstein-Barr virus. The Epstein-Barr virus is an extremely common virus that can be contracted through the lifetime of an individual, though it is rarely contracted by children in developed countries. The virus is potentially harmless, but is found in most gastric carcinoma cases.
Causes of Squamous Cell Lung Carcinoma
Squamous cell lung carcinoma is a type of lung cancer that is potentially fatal, and can spread to other parts of the body, causing excessive amounts of pain and discomfort. This type of carcinoma is often attributed to long-term exposure to toxic materials. This can range from working in an environment that causes frequent exposure to paint fumes to smoking cigarettes
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