Archive for the ‘Cancer’ Category
The incidence of lymph node cancer is increasing globally and is more common in developed nations. However the rise in lymph node cancer in South Africa may often be attributed to the high incidence of HIV/AIDS although this is not the only cause. Due to the nature of the area, there is always a risk of rapid spread as the lymph nodes are connected to each other through the vast network of vessels that make up the lymphatic system.
Skin cancer is a broad term for different types of tumours that affect the skin. There are three main types of skin cancer known as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Other types of skin cancer like Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and Kaposi sarcoma are not common, however Kaposi sarcoma is often seen in South Africa due to its tendency to affect HIV/AIDS patients.
Cervical cancer is a growing problem in South Africa and may be increasing due to the widespread practice of unprotected sex. In a large number of cases of cervical cancer, a virus known as the human papilloma virus (HPV) plays a significant role in the development of this cancer. While cervical cancer is most often seen in women around the age of 30 years, the increasing trend of teen sex may predispose younger women, possibly in their early 20’s to develop cervical cancer.
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