With the right care and support, the overwhelming and daunting disease of cancer can be prevented in many cases. At Women for Women OBGYN, SC, compassionate gynecologist Kornelia Krol, MD, provides cancer-prevention services and works with you to lower your risks and improve your lifestyle, general health, and quality of life. Taking charge of your health helps prevent many complications, diseases, and conditions before they overtake your daily life. For top-quality care, call the Forest Glen, Chicago office or schedule an appointment online.
Cancer refers to a multitude of diseases involving the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably. These rapidly dividing cells infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. Many cancers can spread throughout the body.
General signs and symptoms associated with cancer include:
You might also experience weight fluctuations, such as unexpected weight gain or weight loss.
Cancer is the result of DNA mutations or changes within the cells. The DNA inside each cell is packaged into a large number of individual genes. Each gene contains a set of instructions that tells the cell how to grow and divide, and which functions to perform.
When errors happen in these instructions, the cell can stop functioning normally and become cancerous.
A gene mutation can tell a healthy cell to:
Most gene mutations happen following birth and are caused or worsened by various factors, such as radiation, cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens), viruses, smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, chronic inflammation, and hormones.
In some cases, you are born with gene mutations inherited from your parents. Gene mutations do happen as a normal part of cell growth.
Cells contain a mechanism that acknowledges when a mistake happens and repairs the mistake, so you stay healthy. A missed mistake can cause a cell to become cancerous.
Cancer prevention refers to medical treatments and services, steps you can take, self-care, and other methods that help lower your risk of developing cancer in the future.
To help prevent cancer, Dr. Krol offers a range of services, including:
From key nutrients to hormonal balance, Dr. Krol considers all aspects of your health and wellness.
Protect your body from cancer and boost your health. Call or click to book online.