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Mate pukupuku

Cancer

Cancer is not just one disease. There are over 200 types of cancer. They are usually named from the organ or cell type where the cancer started. These are some common cancer types in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Bowel cancer

Bowel cancer develops when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum grow in an uncontrolled way. Aotearoa New Zealand has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow and eventually form a growth (tumour) which can spread within and beyond the breast.

Leukaemia

Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood cells that develop in the bone marrow. It makes young blood cells grow and multiply in an abnormal way.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma develops in the lymphatic system — part of your immune system. It makes certain white blood cells (lymphocytes) grow and multiply in an abnormal way.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. Melanoma can spread throughout the body and is the most serious form of skin cancer. It can be cured more easily when it is detected and treated early.

Myeloma

Myeloma is a cancer that develops in the bone marrow. It causes abnormal plasma cells to build up which crowds out all other types of healthy blood cells.

Non-melanoma skin cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancers are the most common type of skin cancer. They tend to appear on skin that has had a lot of sun exposure. Non-melanoma skin cancers can usually be treated successfully and cured.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer includes tumours of the ovaries (where eggs form and oestrogen and progesterone are made) and tumours in the fallopian tubes and lining of the abdominal cavity.

Cancer treatments

There are many ways to treat cancer. The main treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Many cancers can be fully cured, especially if they are found early.