Around 500,000 people in Germany are diagnosed with cancer every year. The earlier the disease is detected, the better the chances of recovery. What are the most common causes of cancer, what signs of cancer should you look out for and how can you prevent cancer?

How exactly does cancer develop in the body?

These are cells that can no longer recognize a foreign neighbouring cell and continue to grow there. Cancer cells divide quickly and migrate to other organs via lymph channels and blood vessels, for example. There they continue to grow and then destroy the organ.

Why do so many people develop cancer?

We are getting older and older, and age is one of the biggest risk factors for the disease. But lifestyle also plays a role in preventing cancer. For example, bowel cancer can be triggered by an unhealthy diet rich in carbohydrates, lung cancer by smoking and skin cancer by many sunburns.

Can viruses and bacteria also cause cancer?

In fact, viruses can also cause tumors. For example, cervical cancer can be caused by HPV viruses and liver cancer by the Epstein-Barr virus. Worldwide, scientists attribute around one in six cases of cancer to an infection with viruses or bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori, which can cause stomach cancer.

Is it true that everyone carries cancer cells?

Yes, everyone carries cancer cells every day, but our repair system, the immune system, eliminates these cells before cancer can develop.

And is it true that the psyche plays a role in a disease?

Studies have not provided any clear evidence. Nevertheless, it must be said that psychological stress always weakens our immune system, which in turn can promote cancer. But it must also be said that not every person who experiences stressful situations also develops cancer.

What new therapies are now available?

Probably as many different ones as there are different types of cancer. What is new is that there are now antibody therapies, for example. These are drugs that only bind to the cancer cell and then destroy it. The healthy cells are largely spared. These drugs are also available in combination with chemotherapies, so-called target therapies.

What can I do to prevent cancer?

It's actually quite simple: a healthy diet and exercise help to prevent cancer, as does a balance between work, family and your own needs. It is better to take time to stay healthy, because illness costs an enormous amount of time and quality of life. Very important: don't smoke! In addition, everyone should take advantage of cancer screening examinations so that precancerous stages can be detected.

Are there symptoms by which I can tell if I have cancer?

Yes, unwanted weight loss and loss of performance. Night sweats can also be a symptom.