While some people want to look at cancer survival rates in terms of bottom line statistics, your life has far more meaning to it. In some cases, things that might be of help to you might not have been proven useful in research labs, or may simply not have been discovered yet. That said, there are some things that we know have crucial effects on cancer survival rates.
Cancer is the result of normal cells turning into ones that grow too fast, and then invade other parts of the body. It should come as no surprise that genes play a crucial role in cancer survival rates. Today, there is much research into how genes affect everything from breast cancer development, to how likely a person is to respond to certain therapies.
While a genetic mutation based on family factors can be indicative, there are many other factors that affect cancer survival rates. In some cases, these factors may appear genetic, when they are, in fact, environmental. As an example, exposure to nuclear radiation can permanently alter the genetic heritage of individuals. Thus, an otherwise genetically healthy family may wind up with reduced cancer survival rates. Many people that survived Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as well as American soldiers exposed to nuclear bomb testing often have children that develop “genetic” cancers that may have stemmed from parental exposure to nuclear radiation.
As you may be aware, tobacco products are the single largest factor in determining cancer survival rates. Not only do these products cause cells to mutate, they can also reduce the effectiveness of therapeutic agents. In spite of the fact that smoking has single handedly contributed to more cancer deaths than any other factor in the world, comparatively little is being done to ensure that children do not start smoking, and that adults stop.
Because most forms of therapy take a serious toll on the body, overall medical condition at the time of treatment also has an effect on cancer survival rates. In general, people that can continue with a healthy diet, and exercise, have a much better chance of beating the disease and making a full recovery. On the other hand, people whose cancer progresses to the point where it causes severe bleeding, or other problems will have an added set of health issues to try and contend with.
Finally, in recent years, cancer survival rates have been dramatically influenced by early detection methods. Mammograms, PSA screenings, colonoscopies, and Pap smears have all contributed to the ability to detect cancers before they reach other organs. In many cases, these tests are cheap, easy to obtain, and reliable. People that cannot afford them may also be able to get them for free at various clinics set up for this purpose.
Over the years, researchers have discovered a number of things that influence cancer survival rates. Along with genetic factors, lifestyle habits are some of the most important indicators of how a patient will emerge from the treatment process. In addition, as new screening tools are developed, the ability to detect and treat cancers when they are in their earlier stages will also continue to boost cancer survival rates.
Just rember this is life after prostate cancer and other forms of cancer. Don’t give up!