Overview
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If not treated, cancer can invade nearby tissues and metastasize to distant organs. South Korea offers advanced cancer detection, treatment, and research facilities, making it a leading destination for comprehensive oncology care.
What is Cancer?
Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow uncontrollably due to mutations in their DNA. These abnormal cells can form tumors (solid cancers) or affect the blood and bone marrow (hematologic cancers). Early detection improves outcomes significantly.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary by cancer type but may include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Persistent pain
- Lumps or swelling
- Skin changes
- Persistent cough or breathing problems
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Causes
Cancer can arise from a combination of genetic and environmental factors:
- DNA mutations (inherited or acquired)
- Exposure to carcinogens (tobacco, alcohol, chemicals)
- Chronic inflammation
- Viral infections (e.g., HPV, Hepatitis B/C, EBV)
- Radiation exposure
- Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle
Risk Factors
- Age (risk increases with age)
- Family history of cancer
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Obesity
- Chronic infections
- Exposure to toxins or radiation
- Immune system deficiencies
Complications
- Spread of cancer to other organs (metastasis)
- Organ dysfunction and failure
- Severe pain and fatigue
- Infections due to weakened immunity
- Psychological effects, including anxiety and depression
Prevention
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Vaccinations for HPV and Hepatitis B
- Regular screenings and health check-ups
- Minimize exposure to known carcinogens
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea provides world-class cancer care across multiple specialties.
- Diagnosis & Screening
- Imaging: CT, MRI, PET-CT
- Biopsy and histopathology
- Blood markers and genetic testing
- Medications & Therapies
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Surgical Intervention
- Minimally invasive and robotic surgeries
- Tumor removal and reconstructive procedures
- Radiation Therapy
- External beam radiation
- Brachytherapy (internal radiation)
- Supportive & Palliative Care
- Pain management and symptom relief
- Nutritional counseling
- Psychological support and rehabilitation
