Cancer is one of the most studied and widely discussed diseases in modern medicine, but do we really understand what it entails? Simply put, cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled and abnormal growth of cells. These cells, known as cancerous or malignant cells, multiply atypically and can settle in different parts of the body, displacing healthy cells and disrupting normal tissue function.

Cancer can affect people of all ages, including developing fetuses, although the risk of developing it tends to increase with age. This is due to accumulated risk factors over time, such as exposure to harmful substances, genetics, and cellular changes associated with aging.

One of the most concerning aspects of cancer is its potential to be fatal if not detected and treated early. However, advances in medicine have significantly improved early diagnosis and treatment rates. Today, there are numerous treatment options—including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies—that have made it possible not only to control cancer but, in many cases, to achieve remission or even cure it.