What is cancer?

Understanding cancer is vital for teens, whether facing the disease or supporting someone who is; knowledge and support can guide and ease the journey.

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  • Suitable for members aged 12-17
  • 4 minute read
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Understanding Cancer: A Guide for Teens

Cancer is a term that covers a broad range of diseases which all involve the process of cells in the body growing out of control. Normally, cells grow, divide, and produce more cells as they are needed to keep the body healthy. But sometimes, this orderly process goes wrong. Cells become abnormal, old or damaged cells survive when they should die, and new cells form when they are not needed. These extra cells can divide without stopping and may form what is known as tumours.

Types and Causes of Cancer

There are more than 100 different types of cancer, typically named for the organs or tissues where the cancers form. For example, lung cancer starts in the lung, and brain cancer starts in the brain. Cancers also may be described by the type of cell that formed them, such as an epithelial cell or a squamous cell.

Several factors can cause or contribute to the development of cancer. These may include genetic factors; lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, and exercise; certain types of infections; and exposure to different environmental factors like sunlight or chemicals.

How Cancer Affects Teens

While cancer is less common in teenagers than in older adults, it certainly impacts young people both directly and indirectly. Teens might be diagnosed with cancer themselves, or they might have a family member or friend dealing with the disease. This can bring about significant changes in a teen's life, affecting their emotional wellbeing, social life, and educational pursuits.

The experience of coping with cancer can vary significantly. Some teens may feel isolated because they feel different from their peers. Teen patients or those with cancer-affected family members might also encounter challenges at school due to treatment schedules or emotional stress.

Practical Strategies for Dealing with Cancer

Educating Yourself About the Disease

What is cancer?
  • Understanding exactly what cancer is can alleviate some of the fear and uncertainty. Learn about the specific type of cancer you or your loved one is facing.
  • Use reliable sources to gather information, such as hospital websites, cancer research charities, and trusted medical journals.

Maintaining Routine and Social Connections

  • Keep as much of your normal routine as possible. Continue with school and social activities as much as health permits.
  • Stay connected with friends and family for emotional support through conversations, activities, or social media.

Seeking Support

  • Join support groups where you can meet other people who are going through similar experiences, which can provide emotional support and coping strategies.
  • Consider professional help like a counsellor or therapist, who can help you navigate your feelings and coping strategies effectively.

Conclusion

Cancer is a complex and varied group of diseases, and while it might seem scary, understanding it can bring comfort and control. Whether you're dealing with cancer personally, or someone close to you is, it's important to seek knowledge and support. By maintaining routines, staying informed, and using the support systems available, dealing with cancer's impacts can become more manageable.

Further Reading and Resources

Here are some valuable resources for additional support and information:

  • The American Cancer Society (cancer.org) offers comprehensive information on various types of cancers.
  • Teenage Cancer Trust (teenagecancertrust.org) specifically geared towards teenagers dealing with cancer.
  • Cancer Research UK (cancerresearchuk.org) offers detailed information about cancer and the latest research.

Though you may encounter challenging times, with the right knowledge and support, you can navigate your way through. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and many resources and people are available to help.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

  • Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
  • The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
  • Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.