15 Major Types Of Cancer You Should Know About

Cancer is one of the most devastating diseases, impacting millions of lives worldwide every year. Sadly, many patients battling cancer often lose their lives to it.

At its core, cancer is caused by the abnormal and uncontrolled multiplication of cells, which gradually invade and damage tissues and organs. Some of the most commonly diagnosed cancers include breast cancer, lung cancer, blood cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and several others.

What makes cancer particularly dangerous is the rapid spread of these malignant cells inside the body, leading to severe organ damage and, in many cases, hormonal imbalance. While some forms of cancer can be managed with timely treatment, others are extremely difficult to cure and carry very high fatality rates.

Here’s a look at the 15 most common types of cancer and their effects on the body:

# Breast Cancer

Common among women of all ages, breast cancer involves the development of tumours in the breast, which progressively damage breast tissue.

# Lung Cancer

Strongly linked to smoking, lung cancer is highly fatal and marked by symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and chest pain.

# Brain Cancer (Brain Tumour)

This cancer affects the brain and can lead to constant headaches, memory loss, confusion, speech difficulties, and nausea.

# Bladder Cancer

Seen in both men and women, bladder cancer often presents with blood in the urine, pain during urination, and frequent urination.

# Cervical Cancer

Affecting only women, cervical cancer can be life-threatening, with symptoms like irregular bleeding, painful cramps, abnormal discharge, and heavy periods.

# Colon Cancer

Colon cancer impacts the intestines and may cause abdominal pain, rectal discomfort, loss of appetite, ulcers, and digestive issues.

# Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer may show symptoms such as blood in the urine, persistent back pain, high blood pressure, and swelling in the ankles.

# Leukemia (Blood Cancer)

Affects the blood and bone marrow, causing fatigue, joint pain, diarrhea, vomiting, blood in stools, and frequent infections.

# Liver Cancer

More common among heavy drinkers, liver cancer is associated with abdominal pain, indigestion, fluid retention, nausea, and vomiting.

# Ovarian Cancer

Found in women, this cancer targets the ovaries, causing bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, and digestive disturbances.

# Skin Cancer (Melanoma)

This type of cancer presents with skin darkening, unusual lumps, and irregular moles.

# Pancreatic Cancer

Often aggressive, it manifests as back and abdominal pain, blood or pale stools, yellowing of the eyes, and persistent fatigue.

# Prostate Cancer

Common among men, prostate cancer can cause frequent or painful urination, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue.

# Thyroid Cancer

Though relatively rare, thyroid cancer can be serious, with signs such as neck lumps, swollen lymph nodes, and hormonal imbalances.

# Uterine Cancer

Affecting women, uterine cancer is marked by pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, heavy menstrual flow, and pain during intercourse.