Understanding Inflammation, Neoplasms, and Cancer Prevention
Pathogenesis of Inflammation
Vascular Changes
Vasodilation occurs, increasing blood flow and causing congestion. Dilated capillaries become more permeable, leading to fluid leakage and potential bleeding.
Cellular Changes
Leukocytes adhere to vessel walls (margination) and then migrate through the endothelium (diapedesis) to the infection site. They engulf and eliminate foreign particles and pathogens through phagocytosis.
Tumor Changes
Accumulation of water, acids, and fibrinogen at the injury site causes redness and swelling.
Symptoms of Inflammation
- Tumor (Swelling): Enlargement due to fluid and exudate buildup.
- Rubor (Redness): Caused by vasodilation and increased blood flow.
- Calor (Heat): Resulting from increased blood flow and metabolic activity during phagocytosis.
- Dolor (Pain): Due to irritation of sensory nerve fibers.
- Functio Laesa (Loss of Function): Lack of mobility in the affected area.
- Other Symptoms: Fever, malaise, fatigue, anorexia, weight loss.
Neoplasms
Cancer involves masses of abnormal cells with uncontrolled growth, lacking biological function, exhibiting increased metabolism, consuming excessive nutrients and energy, and producing harmful waste products.
Tumor
A tumor is any abnormal mass resulting from increased cell numbers, regardless of being benign or malignant. Malignant tumors (cancer) can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant sites.
Benign Tumors
Non-cancerous growths that can often be surgically removed and typically don’t recur. They usually don’t spread (metastasize) and are often encapsulated. While generally not life-threatening, they can cause problems by compressing nearby organs. Examples include:
- Fibroid: Tumor of muscle tissue
- Osteoma: Tumor originating in bone
- Angioma: Tumor composed of small blood vessels
- Papilloma: Protruding mass through the skin (wart)
Malignant Tumors (Cancer)
Cancer cells can invade and damage nearby tissues, dividing rapidly and often appearing different from the original cells. They can spread through the lymphatic system or bloodstream (metastasis). Examples include:
- Carcinoma: Cancer originating in epithelial tissue (e.g., skin, lung, breast, colon)
- Sarcoma: Cancer arising in connective tissue (e.g., soft tissue, bone)
Neoplasia
Refers to new, abnormal cell growth and is typically used in the context of malignant proliferation.
Incidence of Cancer
Cancer encompasses various diseases with different symptoms, prognoses, and treatments depending on location and cell type. In 2004, it was the second leading cause of death. Statistics highlight variations in mortality rates between genders and cancer types.
Levels of Prevention
Prevention aims to avert disease onset, slow progression, and mitigate consequences (WHO 1998).
Primary Prevention
Focuses on promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing risk factors to prevent disease occurrence. This includes health promotion initiatives empowering individuals to control and improve their health.
Secondary Prevention
Emphasizes early disease detection and timely treatment to prevent complications. This often involves screening programs and prompt interventions.
Tertiary Prevention
Aims to reduce disability and improve quality of life for individuals with chronic diseases. This includes rehabilitation, long-term management, and support services.