Cancer
On This Page
- What is Cancer?
- What are the most common forms of cancer in Nunavut and how do they relate to the rest of Canada?
- What has Qulliit done in regards to cancer?
- What can I do to reduce my risk of cancer?
- What is a support group?
- Where can I find more information on cancer, the treatment and the different types?
Cancer is a group of more than 100 different diseases, all of which affect the body's basic unit, the cell. Cancer occurs when cells become abnormal and divide without control or order. If cells keep dividing when new cells are not needed, a mass of tissue forms. This mass of extra tissue, called a growth or tumor, can be benign or malignant
Benign tumors are not cancerous and can usually be removed without reoccurrence. In contrast to malignant tumors, benign cells do not spread to other parts of the body and are rarely life-threatening. Malignant tumors on the other hand are cancerous and can spread to other tissues. When this happens they are called metastases. These cells are known to invade and damage surrounding tissues and organs, or to break away from the tumor and enter the lymphatic system or the bloodstream.
The four most common forms of cancer in Nunavut are ofthe lung (39%), colorectal (16%), breast (5%), and nasopharynx (5%). All other forms of cancer comprises 35% of cancer prevalence in Nunavut. This is in contrast to the rest of Canada where lung cancer comprises 19%, breast 17%, colorectal 16%, and all others 43%. These statistics show that Nunavut has a significantly higher occurrence of lung cancer when compared to the rest of Canada. Furthermore, the majority (92%) of these cases occur after the age of 50 in Nunavummiut, whereas for the rest of Canada 89% of cases are seen in people over the age of 60. These statistics show that Nunavummiut are at a greater risk for lung cancer at an earlier age, possibly contributing to the reduced life expectancy seen in Nunavummiut.
(Stats provided by A Ten-Year Profile of Cancer in Nunavut, Healey, S., Plaza, D. & Osborne, G.)
In 2001, Qulliit embarked on a project to address issues related to women and cancer. Although we primarily focused on breast cancer, the project grew to include other forms of the disease. The purpose of this initiative was to provide support for survivors, to increase awareness of breast health in Nunavut, and to develop comprehensive community building initiatives. An important result of this project was the formation of the Breast Health Education Kit. For a more in depth look at our Cancer Project, please click here.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, reducing your risk of cancer begins with healthy living. Although there is no proven way to eliminate your cancer risk, you can reduce it by choosing a healthy lifestyle that includes being active, eating balanced meals, limiting alcohol consumption and excessive sun exposure, and avoiding smoking and other drugs. For a more in depth look at these factors, please visit the Prevention Section on the Canadian Cancer Website.
The Cancer Society also emphasizes the importance of knowing your body and being aware of the signs and symptoms of cancer. If you suspect that you have cancer, it is important to make an appointment with your local health care worker as soon as possible to be examined.
A support group is a group of people who come together to deal with a shared concern or problem. The initial focus of the group is to share feelings and experiences, trade information and resources, exchange new ways to solve old problems, and to reduce stress and anxiety by having a good time. Ongoing support and contact with other women living with cancer has proven to be very effective for survivors. The support group helps many cancer patients to break down the feelings of fear, isolation, confusion, and shame.
To find more information on cancer, we recommend visiting the Canadian Cancer Society website or to talk with your local health care professional.