Cancer

Cancer is a general term for uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.  Many kinds of tumors are specific to certain parts of the body.  When tumors grow, they interfere with the normal functioning of an organ or tissue.  The growth has no built-in brakes.  Cancerous cells are alive, and as they continue to grow, they also take nutrients from the host's diet or body reserves.

Probable Causes
   • Initiating events such as:
     a) general, medical or industrial radiation
     b) infusion of a chemical - a carcinogen - into the cell
     c) certain viral infections
     d) heredity, runs in the family
         (tendency to succumb to cancer cells)

Probable Symptoms

   • Cancer cachexia - a syndrome that often accompanies many types of cancers characterized by:

     a) anorexia
     b) inadequate intake of food
     c) progressive malnutrition
     d) accelerated weight loss
     e) general ill health

Helpful Dietary Management

   • Eat a high-calorie, hig-protein, lowfat diet preferably with fresh fruits and vegetables which are rich in the protective butrients (vitamins_.  No preservatives, please!

Note: Attention to diet can prevent or reverse poor nutrition status.  The cancer patient in good nutrition status is less susceptible to infections and probably tolerates cancer therapy better.

Related topic:
Possible effects of Radiation and chemotherapy on nutrition status