{"id":12670,"date":"2025-07-09T23:03:45","date_gmt":"2025-07-09T19:33:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonyadhamdeli.com\/%d8%b3%d8%b1%d8%b7%d8%a7%d9%86\/"},"modified":"2026-04-17T14:03:43","modified_gmt":"2026-04-17T10:33:43","slug":"cancer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonyadhamdeli.com\/en\/cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"All about cancer: warning signs, treatments, and your role in saving patients"},"content":{"rendered":"

What is cancer? Symptoms, types, prevention and treatment methods<\/h1>\n

Introduction: Why should we know more about cancer?<\/h3>\n

Cancer is one of the most important diseases of our time, affecting millions of people worldwide every year. Although the word “cancer” may be scary, the truth is that with awareness, prevention, early detection, and advanced treatments, this disease can be fought. Proper understanding of cancer can save lives, give hope to families, and reduce treatment costs. In this article, we try to provide complete information about cancer, its symptoms, different types, prevention, and treatment in simple language.<\/p>\n

The Hamdali Foundation is a support group in the field of helping cancer patients, which aims to reduce treatment concerns, cover essential expenses, and boost patients’ morale. The foundation, with public donations and the participation of donors, tries to make the treatment path smoother for patients and their families. If you are interested in supporting them, you can do so through online payment, telephone contact, or online chat. Also, people who need help or advice can simply contact the foundation’s support team through these communication channels to receive the necessary guidance.<\/p>\n

What is cancer?<\/h2>\n

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. Normally, cells grow, divide, and die at the appropriate time. But in cancer, this process goes awry, and cells multiply abnormally and sometimes spread to other parts of the body (metastasis).<\/p>\n

What is the difference between a healthy cell and a cancer cell?<\/p>\n

Healthy cell: regular life cycle, limited growth, natural death (apoptosis)<\/p>\n

Cancer cell: unlimited growth, resistance to death, invasion of other tissues<\/p>\n

What causes cancer?<\/h2>\n

Cancer often occurs due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some common factors include:<\/p>\n

1. Genetic factors<\/p>\n

2. Lifestyle<\/p>\n

3. Environment<\/p>\n

4. Viral and microbial factors<\/p>\n

General Cancer Symptoms<\/h2>\n

Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type, but some general warning signs that should not be ignored include:<\/p>\n

Unexplained weight loss<\/p>\n

Extreme and persistent fatigue<\/p>\n

A lump or bump on the body<\/p>\n

Changes in skin or moles<\/p>\n

Unusual bleeding or discharge<\/p>\n

A cough or hoarseness that does not improve<\/p>\n

Persistent digestive or urinary problems<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udc48 Note: The presence of these symptoms does not always mean cancer, but it does require immediate medical attention.<\/p>\n

Common Types of Cancer<\/h2>\n

Cancers are classified based on where they start. Here are some of the more common types:<\/p>\n

1. Breast cancer:<\/p>\n

The most common cancer in women. It usually appears as a lump in the breast.<\/p>\n

2. Colon cancer:<\/p>\n

One of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, especially in adults over 50.<\/p>\n

3. Leukemia:<\/p>\n

Starts in the bone marrow and blood and disrupts the production of blood cells.<\/p>\n

4. Prostate cancer:<\/p>\n

The most common type in middle-aged and elderly men. It is often characterized by difficulty urinating.<\/p>\n

5. Stomach cancer:<\/p>\n

It usually has no specific symptoms in the early stages and is therefore diagnosed late.<\/p>\n

6. Childhood cancer:<\/p>\n

Includes leukemia, brain tumors, neuroblastoma. Early diagnosis is vital.<\/p>\n

Ways to diagnose cancer<\/h2>\n

Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Common diagnostic methods include:<\/p>\n

Blood tests and tumor markers<\/p>\n

Mammography (for the breast)<\/p>\n

Colonoscopy (for the colon)<\/p>\n

MRI and CT Scan<\/p>\n

Biopsy (taking a sample of suspicious tissue)<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udd0d Important: Regular examination and screening are very important for high-risk individuals.<\/p>\n

Cancer Treatment Methods<\/h2>\n

Treatment methods vary depending on the type, stage of progression, and patient condition. Some common methods include:<\/p>\n

1. Chemotherapy:<\/p>\n

Using strong drugs to kill cancer cells.<\/p>\n

2. Radiotherapy:<\/p>\n

Using radiation to destroy cancer cells.<\/p>\n

3. Surgery:<\/p>\n

To remove a lump or tumor at certain stages.<\/p>\n

4. Immunotherapy:<\/p>\n

Boosting the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.<\/p>\n

5. Targeted therapies:<\/p>\n

Targeting specific molecules or genes in a cancer cell.<\/p>\n

Can cancer be prevented?<\/p>\n

Yes, up to 50% of cancers can be prevented by changing your lifestyle:<\/p>\n

Effective strategies:<\/p>\n

No smoking<\/p>\n

Healthy diet (fruits, vegetables, fiber)<\/p>\n

Regular exercise (at least 30 minutes a day)<\/p>\n

Balanced weight<\/p>\n

Avoiding alcohol<\/p>\n

Getting an annual check-up<\/p>\n

HPV vaccination<\/p>\n

Types of cancers, their prevention and treatment methods<\/h2>\n

\"\u062a\u0635\u0648\u06cc\u0631<\/h2>\n

1. Breast Cancer<\/h2>\n

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the world and occurs when breast tissue cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably. This cancer can appear as a lump or changes in the appearance of the breast and, if not diagnosed in time, can spread to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Monthly breast self-exam<\/p>\n

Mammograms as recommended by your doctor<\/p>\n

Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly<\/p>\n

Avoiding alcohol and tobacco<\/p>\n

Eating a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery (removal of the lump or the entire breast in advanced cases)<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Hormone therapy (in some types)<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies and immunotherapy in certain cases<\/p>\n

\"\u062a\u0635\u0648\u06cc\u0631<\/h2>\n

2. Colon Cancer<\/h2>\n

Colon cancer usually starts with abnormal growth of cells lining the colon. This cancer is often accompanied by changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, and may have internal bleeding that may or may not be visible.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Eat a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)<\/p>\n

Limit red and processed meats<\/p>\n

Exercise regularly<\/p>\n

Have a screening colonoscopy for people over 50<\/p>\n

Avoid smoking and alcohol<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery to remove the affected areas<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy after surgery or in advanced stages<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy (sometimes in certain stages)<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies for some patients<\/p>\n

\"\u06af\u0644\u0628\u0648\u0644<\/h2>\n

3. Leukemia<\/h2>\n

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells that forms in the bone marrow and causes abnormal production of white blood cells. The disease can progress rapidly and reduce the body’s ability to fight infections.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Leukemia is mostly caused by genetic and environmental factors and has no specific prevention<\/p>\n

Reducing exposure to toxic chemicals and ionizing radiation<\/p>\n

Timely control and treatment of underlying diseases<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Strong and long-term chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Bone marrow transplant (in certain cases)<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies and immunotherapy<\/p>\n

Supportive care and control of complications<\/p>\n

\"\u062a\u0648\u062f\u0647<\/h2>\n

4. Prostate Cancer<\/h2>\n

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and usually progresses slowly. The prostate is a small gland below the bladder that produces semen. Early detection of this cancer increases the chances of successful treatment.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

A low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables<\/p>\n

Regular exercise<\/p>\n

Annual check-ups for men over 50<\/p>\n

Avoid smoking and alcohol<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Active observation (for slow-growing cancers)<\/p>\n

Prostatectomy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Hormone therapy<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy in advanced stages<\/p>\n

\"<\/h2>\n

5. Stomach Cancer<\/h2>\n

Stomach cancer often has no specific symptoms in the early stages and is diagnosed when the disease is advanced. Factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, unhealthy diet and smoking are risk factors for this cancer.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Timely treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection<\/p>\n

Reducing consumption of processed and salty foods<\/p>\n

Healthy and balanced diet<\/p>\n

Quitting smoking<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery to remove part of the stomach or the entire stomach<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Targeted therapy in some cases<\/p>\n

\"\u062a\u0635\u0648\u06cc\u0631<\/h2>\n

6. Lung Cancer<\/h2>\n

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, usually caused by smoking or exposure to carcinogens. It can cause chronic coughs, shortness of breath, and chest pain.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Quit smoking completely<\/p>\n

Reduce exposure to air pollution and chemicals<\/p>\n

Wear a mask in polluted environments<\/p>\n

Healthy diet and regular exercise<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery in early stages<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies and immunotherapy<\/p>\n

\"<\/h2>\n

7. Cervical Cancer<\/h2>\n

This cancer is most common in sexually active women and is usually caused by the HPV virus. Getting a Pap smear and getting vaccinated against HPV play an important role in prevention.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

HPV vaccination<\/p>\n

Getting regular Pap smears<\/p>\n

Avoiding risky sexual behaviors<\/p>\n

Using condoms<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery (removal of the tumor or uterus)<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

\"\u062a\u0635\u0648\u06cc\u0631<\/h2>\n

8. Childhood Cancers<\/h2>\n

Childhood Cancers include types such as leukemia, brain tumors, and neuroblastoma. These cancers tend to grow faster but respond well to treatment.<\/p>\n

Prevention<\/p>\n

Most childhood cancers are caused by genetic factors and have no specific prevention<\/p>\n

Regular medical care for children<\/p>\n

Early diagnosis<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Surgery<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies<\/p>\n

\"\u0627\u0646\u0648\u0627\u0639<\/h2>\n

9. Skin Cancer<\/h2>\n

Skin cancer includes several types, the most common of which are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. These cancers are usually caused by sun damage and UV rays, and if detected early, their treatment is very successful.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Using sunscreen with a high SPF<\/p>\n

Avoiding sunburn<\/p>\n

Using protective clothing against the sun<\/p>\n

Regular skin examination and checking suspicious moles<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery to remove the tumor<\/p>\n

Cryotherapy (freezing the cancerous tissue)<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies and immunotherapy in advanced cases<\/p>\n

\"<\/h2>\n

10. Pancreatic Cancer<\/h2>\n

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. It is often accompanied by abdominal pain, weight loss, and yellowing of the skin.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Quit smoking<\/p>\n

Maintain a healthy weight<\/p>\n

Healthy diet and exercise<\/p>\n

Control diabetes and chronic diseases<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery (if possible)<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Targeted and palliative therapies<\/p>\n

\"\u062a\u0635\u0648\u06cc\u0631<\/h2>\n

11. Thyroid Cancer<\/h2>\n

Thyroid cancer is usually slow-growing and occurs in the thyroid gland. It is more common in women and is often characterized by a lump or nodule in the neck.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Adequate iodine intake<\/p>\n

Avoid unnecessary radiation to the neck<\/p>\n

Periodic thyroid exams<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgical removal of the thyroid gland<\/p>\n

Radioactive iodine therapy<\/p>\n

Hormone therapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy (in certain cases)<\/p>\n

\"\u0645\u062b\u0627\u0646\u0647\"<\/h2>\n

12. Bladder Cancer<\/h2>\n

Bladder cancer occurs in the lining of the bladder and is more common in smokers or those exposed to industrial chemicals. The main symptom is blood in the urine.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Quit smoking<\/p>\n

Avoid hazardous chemicals<\/p>\n

Drink enough fluids<\/p>\n

See a doctor promptly if you see blood in your urine<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery to remove the tumor<\/p>\n

Local or systemic chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Local bladder immunotherapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

\"\u062f\u0647\u0627\u0646<\/h2>\n

13. Oral and Throat Cancer<\/h2>\n

These cancers are usually caused by smoking, alcohol consumption, and HPV infection. They include cancers of the lips, tongue, throat, and pharynx.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Quit smoking and alcohol<\/p>\n

HPV vaccination<\/p>\n

Maintain good oral hygiene<\/p>\n

See your doctor for regular checkups<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies<\/p>\n

\"\u062a\u0635\u0648\u06cc\u0631<\/h2>\n

14. Brain Cancer<\/h2>\n

Brain cancer can start in the brain itself or metastasize to the brain from other parts of the body. Symptoms include headaches, seizures, and behavioral changes.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Avoid contact with hazardous chemicals<\/p>\n

Reduce radiation exposure<\/p>\n

Follow-up treatment for chronic brain diseases<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Targeted therapies<\/p>\n

\"\u0633\u0627\u0631\u06a9\u0648\u0645\u200c\u0647\u0627\"<\/h2>\n

15. Sarcomas<\/h2>\n

Sarcomas are cancers that occur in soft tissues such as muscle, fat, blood vessels, and bone. These cancers are rare but usually grow quickly.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Reducing repetitive physical injuries<\/p>\n

Avoiding unnecessary radiation<\/p>\n

Care for chronic wounds<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Extensive surgery<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy<\/p>\n

\"\u06a9\u0628\u062f<\/h2>\n

16. Liver Cancer<\/h2>\n

Liver cancer is usually caused by chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B and C or cirrhosis. Symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Hepatitis B vaccination<\/p>\n

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption<\/p>\n

Treat liver disease early<\/p>\n

Maintain a healthy weight<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery<\/p>\n

Liver transplant<\/p>\n

Local chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Targeted therapy<\/p>\n

\"\u0631\u062d\u0645<\/h2>\n

17. Ovarian Cancer<\/h2>\n

Ovarian cancer is usually asymptomatic in its early stages and is associated with abdominal pain and swelling in its advanced stages. This cancer is most common in women over 50.<\/p>\n

Prevention methods<\/p>\n

Using birth control pills (risk reduction)<\/p>\n

Regular screenings<\/p>\n

Healthy diet and exercise<\/p>\n

Treatment methods<\/p>\n

Surgery to remove the ovaries<\/p>\n

Chemotherapy<\/p>\n

Radiation therapy in certain cases<\/p>\n

Rare Cancers: When Danger Comes from an Unexpected Place<\/h2>\n

Rare cancers are those that affect fewer than 6 per 100,000 people per year. Although they are less common, they are often more difficult to diagnose and more complex to treat.<\/p>\n

The most important rare cancers are:<\/h2>\n

Sarcomas: These include cancers of soft tissue such as muscle, fat, blood vessels, and bone. A common type of these is Ewing’s sarcoma, which is seen in teenagers.<\/p>\n

Neuroendocrine tumors: These arise from hormone-producing cells in various parts of the body.<\/p>\n

Merkel cell carcinoma: A rare but aggressive type of skin cancer.<\/p>\n

Rare lymphomas: Such as T-cell lymphoma.<\/p>\n

Retinoblastoma: Very rare and hereditary in children.<\/p>\n

Cancer of the retina (retinoblastoma): Rare but potentially dangerous.<\/p>\n

Characteristics:<\/p>\n

General and vague symptoms (e.g. pain, swelling, general weakness)<\/p>\n

Need specialized genetic or pathology testing for diagnosis<\/p>\n

Lack of public awareness of symptoms leads to late diagnosis<\/p>\n

Why should we be aware of rare cancers?<\/h2>\n

Greater awareness of these cancers could lead to earlier diagnosis, better treatment, and lower mortality rates. They also have less research and funding, and require more attention from charities, researchers, and the community.<\/p>\n

Cancer Statistics and Information in Iran<\/h2>\n

According to the report of the Ministry of Health and the Iranian Cancer Research Center:<\/p>\n

General Statistics:<\/p>\n

About 130,000 new cases of cancer are registered in Iran annually.<\/p>\n

Breast cancer in women, abdominal cancers in men under 40, and leukemia in men over 40 are the most common.<\/p>\n

After heart disease, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the country.<\/p>\n

Age of onset:<\/p>\n

The average age of cancer onset in Iran is 10 years lower than the global average.<\/p>\n

The growth of cancer in the young population is particularly worrying.<\/p>\n

Reasons for the increase in cancer cases in Iran:<\/h2>\n

Unhealthy diet (high consumption of fast food and fat)<\/p>\n

Air pollution and agricultural toxins<\/p>\n

Aging population<\/p>\n

Sedentary lifestyle and obesity<\/p>\n

These statistics double the importance of awareness, prevention and screening. The Hamdali Foundation strives to play an effective role in reducing the suffering of patients through education, public assistance and support services.<\/p>\n

Scientific and up-to-date sources used<\/h2>\n

In producing medical and cancer-related content, using reputable international sources is the first condition for credibility and trust of users. These sources provide accurate, up-to-date, and scientific information.<\/p>\n

The most important international authoritative sources:<\/h2>\n

PubMed: The largest scientific database of medical articles and clinical research<\/p>\n

World Health Organization (WHO): Global statistics and cancer prevention programs<\/p>\n

American Cancer Society: Complete information on types of cancer, treatment, and care<\/p>\n

National Cancer Institute (NCI): The official department of the US government for cancer research<\/p>\n

GLOBOCAN: Global cancer statistics for different years by country<\/p>\n

A look at the latest cancer research in the world<\/h2>\n

In recent years, global cancer research has made significant progress, raising hopes for more effective and earlier treatments.<\/p>\n

Key new findings:<\/h3>\n

Cancer vaccines: Research is progressing on vaccines for breast, lung, and pancreatic cancer.<\/p>\n

Advanced immunotherapy: New drugs have been introduced that target cancer cells by stimulating the immune system.<\/p>\n

RNA-based therapies: These therapies stop tumor growth by modifying gene expression.<\/p>\n

Artificial intelligence in cancer diagnosis: Machine learning algorithms have been successful in analyzing medical images and diagnosing tumors more accurately.<\/p>\n

Cancer prediction through blood tests: New blood tests can show early signs of cancer earlier than traditional methods.<\/p>\n

Patient participation in research<\/p>\n

Many patients in developed countries volunteer to participate in clinical trials, which has led to faster development of treatments.<\/p>\n

Living with Cancer: How to Maintain Hope?<\/h2>\n

Living with cancer is difficult, but not impossible. Patients need multifaceted support:<\/p>\n

Family support: Emotional and spiritual support<\/p>\n

Psychotherapy: Managing anxiety, depression, and fear<\/p>\n

Proper nutrition: A balanced diet to maintain energy<\/p>\n

Support groups: Connecting with like-minded patients<\/p>\n

\ud83c\udf97\ufe0f Many people have fought cancer and won. Hope is the most important medicine.<\/p>\n

The role of people and charities in supporting cancer patients<\/p>\n

The costs of cancer treatment are very high and many patients cannot afford it. This is where public support and charities like the Empathy Foundation become vital.<\/p>\n

How can you help cancer patients?<\/h2>\n

1. Financial Donation<\/p>\n

Help patients in need with any amount you can. This donation will be used for treatment, medicine, nutrition, and special care expenses.<\/p>\n

2. Volunteering<\/p>\n

If you have time, you can volunteer at the Hamdali Foundation and accompany patients, provide counseling, or help with administrative tasks.<\/p>\n

3. Donate medicine and medical equipment<\/p>\n

Donate surplus medicine and usable medical equipment to be delivered to patients.<\/p>\n

4. Social awareness and support<\/p>\n

Help attract more donations by sharing educational materials, campaigns, and patients’ needs on social media.<\/p>\n

Psychology and Support: Psychological Coping Methods with Cancer<\/h2>\n

Coping with Cancer Stress and Anxiety: A Guide to Psychological Support for Patients and Families<\/p>\n

A cancer diagnosis is a very stressful and frightening experience for patients and their families. Psychological stress can negatively impact treatment and quality of life. In this section, we will explore strategies for coping with stress and psychological support:<\/p>\n

1. Acceptance and Awareness<\/p>\n

Acceptance of the disease is the first step in managing stress. Obtaining accurate and reliable information about the type of cancer, the stages of treatment, and the recovery process reduces anxiety and helps patients and families feel more in control.<\/p>\n

2. Social support<\/p>\n

The presence of family, friends, and psychological support groups plays an important role in reducing feelings of loneliness and increasing patients’ motivation. The Empathy Foundation plays this role by providing a supportive environment and accompanying volunteers.<\/p>\n

3. Stress and anxiety management<\/p>\n

Practicing deep breathing techniques, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress. It is also recommended to refer to counselors and psychologists specializing in cancer for professional advice.<\/p>\n

4. Maintaining hope and positive thinking<\/p>\n

A positive outlook and maintaining hope increase patients’ mental energy and have a positive effect on the treatment process. Reading success stories of cancer patients can be inspiring.<\/p>\n

New Cancer Treatment Technologies; New Hope for Patients<\/h2>\n

In recent years, significant advances have been made in cancer treatment, increasing hope for patients:<\/p>\n