The human genome contains many types of genes that control cell growth. When these genes have an error in their DNA, they may not work properly. Cancer can develop if many gene errors occur.

• About Cancer and Genetics
• Genetics: Breast and Ovarian Cancer
• Genetics: Colorectal Cancer
• Genetics: Other Cancers
• Genetic Testing

Doctors use tests like mammography, MRI, and CT scans to help them screen for, diagnose, and treat cancer. If you have cancer, you may have had one or more of these tests.

• Cancer Tests Overview
• Gastroenterology Tests and Procedures
• Pulmonary Tests and Procedures
• Orthopedic Tests and Procedures
• Neurology Tests and Procedures
• Gynecology Tests and Procedures
• Urology Tests and Procedures

After your cancer diagnosis, everything in life may suddenly feel out of control. Your initial thoughts may be "How could this have happened to me?" and "How will I get through this?"

Making careful food choices will help support your immune system�s fight against cancer. The foods you choose to eat during treatment will vary according to any side effects you may have.

The goals of cancer treatment are to get rid of the cancer; prevent it from recurring; prolong life, and, if necessary, provide palliation, or easing of symptoms to improve quality of life.

• About Cancer Treatment
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation Therapy
• Hormone Therapy
• Surgery
• Other Cancer Treatments
• Clinical Trials
• Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Cancer treatment can cause a number of side effects. Learn how to cope with fatigue, loss of appetite, skin problems, and more.

• About Cancer SideEffects
• Appetite Loss and Taste Changes
• Anxiety and Depression
• Bone Loss
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Mouth Sores and Swallowing Issues
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Other Side Effects
• Pain Control
• Sexual Issues
• Skin Problems and Hair Loss
• Sleep and Neurological Issues

Newer tests and cancer treatments have added many months and years to people's lives. As a result, cancer is increasingly viewed as a long-term chronic illness.

• Coping With Cancer Overview
• Managing Emotions and Stress
• Family Support
• Records and Documents
• Sexual Concerns
• Spiritual Needs
• Work and Finances
• Survivor Stories
• Care for Caregiver
• End of Life Care
• Grief and Loss

Look here for information on specific types of cancer, from adrenal cancer to thyroid cancer and beyond.

• Breast Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Leukemia - General
• Lung Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Testicular Cancer

Cancer is a disease that strikes not only adults, but also children. Find out how childhood cancer, diagnosis, and treatment differ from adult cancers.

• Childhood Cancers
• About Cancer
• Cancer Treatment
• Cancer Prevention
• Living With Cancer
• Caring for the Child