Weekly digest
This week at Cancer Explained
Everything new on the site this week — explainers, cancer news, and a few guides worth revisiting. Updated with each publish (last updated July 5, 2026).
New explainers
- Carcinogens & Regulation
1,3-Butadiene and Cancer
What 1,3-butadiene is, how workers and the public are exposed, its link to blood cancers, and how exposure is reduced — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
2-Naphthylamine and Cancer
What 2-naphthylamine is, its history in the dye and rubber industries, its strong bladder cancer link, and how it is controlled — based on IARC and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
4-Aminobiphenyl and Cancer
What 4-aminobiphenyl is, how exposure happens, its bladder cancer link, and how it is controlled — based on IARC and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Anabolic Steroids and Cancer
What anabolic steroids are, how misuse leads to exposure, their suspected liver cancer link, and why medical guidance matters — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Aristolochic Acid and Cancer
What aristolochic acid is, how it appears in some herbal products, its urinary-tract cancer link, and how to avoid it — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Arsenic and Cancer
What arsenic is, how it gets into drinking water and food, the cancers it causes, and how to reduce exposure — based on the National Cancer Institute and EPA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Asbestos and Cancer
What asbestos is, how people are exposed, the cancers it causes, and how to reduce your risk — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Aspartame and Cancer
What aspartame is, why IARC listed it as possibly carcinogenic in 2023, why health agencies kept the same safe intake, and what this means — based on IARC/WHO and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Azathioprine and Cancer
What azathioprine is, why an immune-suppressing drug can raise cancer risk, its links to lymphoma and skin cancer, and how risk is managed — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Benzene and Cancer
What benzene is, how people are exposed through fuel and smoke, its link to leukemia, and how to lower exposure — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Benzidine and Aromatic Amines
What benzidine is, its history in the dye industry, its strong link to bladder cancer, and how exposure is controlled — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Benzo[a]pyrene and Cancer
What benzo[a]pyrene is, how it forms from burning and cooking, its cancer links, and how to reduce exposure — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Beryllium and Cancer
What beryllium is, how workers are exposed, its link to lung cancer, and how exposure is controlled — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Cadmium and Cancer
What cadmium is, how workers and smokers are exposed, its link to lung cancer, and how to reduce exposure — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
California Proposition 65, Explained
What Proposition 65 is, why California products carry cancer warnings, and how to interpret them without alarm — based on California's OEHHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Carbon Black and Cancer
What carbon black is, how workers are exposed to its dust, its possible cancer link, and how exposure is controlled — based on IARC and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Carcinogens at Work: Occupational Cancer Risks
Why the workplace is a major source of carcinogen exposure, which jobs and agents carry risk, and how worker protections reduce it — based on the National Cancer Institute and IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Cell Phones, Radiofrequency Fields, and Cancer
What radiofrequency energy from cell phones is, why IARC lists it as possibly carcinogenic, what large studies show, and simple ways to reduce exposure — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Chemicals in High-Temperature Cooked Meat
How HCAs and PAHs form when meat is cooked at high heat, what the evidence says about cancer, and simple cooking changes that reduce them — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Chemotherapy and Second Cancers
Why some cancer-fighting drugs can rarely cause a later cancer, which drugs are involved, and how care teams manage the risk — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Chinese-Style Salted Fish and Cancer
What Chinese-style salted fish is, how it is linked to nasopharyngeal cancer, and how the risk relates to timing of exposure — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Coal Tar and Coal-Tar Pitch
What coal tar is, how workers and patients are exposed, its skin and lung cancer links, and how exposure is managed — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Cobalt and Cancer
What cobalt is, how workers are exposed, its suspected lung cancer link, and how exposure is controlled — based on IARC and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Coffee and Cancer Risk
Why IARC moved coffee out of the 'possibly carcinogenic' category in 2016, what research now suggests, and how to keep the very hot beverage point in view — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Coke-Oven Emissions and Cancer
What coke-oven emissions are, who is exposed, their lung and kidney cancer links, and how exposure is controlled — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Common Chemicals Behind Prop 65 Warnings
The everyday chemicals most often named in Proposition 65 warnings — lead, acrylamide, DEHP, and more — and where they come from, based on California's OEHHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Crystalline Silica and Cancer
What respirable crystalline silica is, which jobs create dangerous dust, its link to lung cancer, and how to control it — based on the National Cancer Institute and OSHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Cyclophosphamide and Second Cancers
What cyclophosphamide is, why a cancer medicine can itself be a carcinogen, its link to later blood and bladder cancers, and how risk is managed — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
DDT and Cancer
What DDT is, its history as a pesticide, its suspected cancer links, and how exposure has fallen since it was banned — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Diesel Exhaust and Cancer
What diesel exhaust contains, who is most exposed, its link to lung cancer, and how to reduce exposure — based on IARC and NCI research.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Does Prop 65 Work? The Over-Warning Debate
The main criticisms of Proposition 65 — warning fatigue, hazard-not-risk labeling, and litigation incentives — presented alongside the case in its defense, based on OEHHA and public commentary.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Dose and Cancer Risk: Why 'The Dose Makes the Poison'
Why the amount and length of exposure are central to cancer risk, what 'the dose makes the poison' means, and how this shapes sensible decisions — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Emissions from High-Temperature Frying and Cancer
How cooking-oil fumes from high-heat frying may raise cancer risk, who is most exposed, and how ventilation helps — based on IARC.
- Side Effects
Emotional Distress and Cancer
A plain-language look at the difficult emotions cancer can bring — fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, and more — and when to ask for help, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Epstein-Barr Virus and Cancer
What EBV is, how common it is, which cancers it is linked to, and what this means for risk — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Erionite and Cancer
What erionite is, how exposure happens in certain regions, its link to mesothelioma, and how exposure is reduced — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Ethylene Oxide and Cancer
What ethylene oxide is, how it is used to sterilize medical equipment, its blood-cancer links, and how exposure is reduced — based on the National Cancer Institute and EPA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
EU CLP: How Europe Classifies Carcinogens
How the EU's CLP Regulation sorts carcinogens into Categories 1A, 1B, and 2, and what the hazard statements and pictograms mean — based on ECHA and EU law.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
EU Occupational Exposure Limits for Carcinogens
How the EU sets legally binding workplace exposure limits for carcinogens, with examples, and why they matter for worker safety — based on EU law and EU-OSHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
EU Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs)
What makes a chemical a Substance of Very High Concern under REACH, how carcinogens qualify, and how the candidate list leads to phase-outs — based on ECHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
EU vs. US: Two Approaches to Carcinogens
How the European Union and United States differ in regulating carcinogens — precaution and hazard-based rules versus risk-based, agency-specific assessment — presented evenhandedly.
- Side Effects
Fertility and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of how cancer treatment can affect fertility, why timing matters, and the preservation options people discuss with their care teams, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Formaldehyde and Cancer
What formaldehyde is, where it is found in the home and workplace, its cancer links, and how to reduce exposure — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Gasoline and Cancer
What gasoline is, how vapors expose people, its possible cancer link (and the role of benzene), and how to reduce exposure — based on IARC and ATSDR.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Glyphosate and Cancer
What glyphosate is, why expert agencies disagree about its cancer risk, and how to reduce exposure — based on IARC, EPA, and NCI research.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Hazard vs. Risk: The Most Important Idea in Cancer Warnings
Why 'hazard' and 'risk' are not the same thing, and why understanding the difference is the key to reading carcinogen classifications and warnings calmly — based on IARC and the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Hexavalent Chromium and Cancer
What hexavalent chromium is, how workers are exposed, its link to lung cancer, and how exposure is controlled — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
How Chemicals Get on the Prop 65 List
The four ways a chemical can be added to California's Proposition 65 list, and why many listings come straight from IARC and the NTP — based on California's OEHHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
How Scientists Identify Carcinogens
How researchers combine human studies, animal studies, and cell research to decide whether something can cause cancer — based on the National Cancer Institute and IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
How the EPA Assesses Carcinogens
How the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency evaluates cancer-causing substances, how its risk-based approach differs from hazard classifications, and what IRIS is — based on the EPA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
How the European Union Regulates Carcinogens
An overview of the EU's system for classifying and controlling carcinogens — CLP, REACH, and the workplace directive — and how it differs from the US approach.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
How to Read a Carcinogen Classification
A practical guide to interpreting IARC groups, NTP listings, and product warnings without alarm — turning labels into useful information — based on IARC, NTP, and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
HTLV-1 and Cancer
What HTLV-1 is, how it spreads, its link to an adult leukemia/lymphoma, and how transmission is reduced — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
IARC Group 1: 'Carcinogenic to Humans'
What it means when an agent is placed in IARC Group 1, which well-known agents are on the list, and why 'Group 1' does not mean 'equally dangerous' — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
IARC Group 2A: 'Probably Carcinogenic'
What 'probably carcinogenic' really means, which agents are in Group 2A, and why 'probably' signals suspicion on solid grounds rather than proof — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
IARC Group 2B: 'Possibly Carcinogenic'
What the weakest 'maybe' category means, which familiar agents are in Group 2B, and why it often reflects uncertainty rather than proven risk — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
IARC Group 3: 'Not Classifiable'
What 'not classifiable' really means, why it is not the same as 'proven safe,' and which familiar agents are in Group 3 — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
IARC Monographs and Cancer Groups, Explained
What the IARC Monographs program is, what Groups 1, 2A, 2B, and 3 mean, and how to read them without alarm — based on the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Inorganic Lead and Cancer
What inorganic lead is, how exposure happens from old paint and industry, its suspected cancer links, and how to reduce exposure — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Ionizing Radiation and Cancer
What ionizing radiation is, its natural and medical sources, how it can cause cancer, and how to keep exposure reasonable — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Kaposi Sarcoma Herpesvirus and Cancer
What KSHV (HHV-8) is, how it spreads, its link to Kaposi sarcoma, and why immune status matters — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Known vs. Suspected Carcinogens
What separates a 'known' carcinogen from a 'suspected' one, why the difference matters, and how to respond to each — based on IARC and the NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Leather Dust and Cancer
How leather dust exposure happens in leather manufacturing, its link to rare nasal cancers, and how to control it — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Liver Flukes and Cancer
What liver flukes are, how people get infected from raw fish, their link to bile-duct cancer, and how to prevent infection — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Magnetic Fields (ELF) and Cancer
What extremely low frequency magnetic fields are, why IARC lists them as possibly carcinogenic, what studies of childhood leukemia show, and how to keep this in perspective — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Malathion and Cancer
What malathion is, how it is used against insects, its suspected cancer link, and how to reduce exposure — based on IARC and EPA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Medical Imaging Radiation and Cancer
How CT scans and x-rays use ionizing radiation, what the small cancer risk means, and how to balance benefits and risks — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Cancer
What menopausal hormone therapy is, how it affects cancer risk in both directions, and how decisions are made with your doctor — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Naphthalene and Cancer
What naphthalene is, how mothballs and combustion expose people, its possible cancer link, and how to reduce exposure — based on IARC and ATSDR.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Nickel Compounds and Cancer
What nickel compounds are, how workers are exposed, their link to lung and nasal cancer, and how exposure is controlled — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Night Shift Work and Cancer
How night and rotating shift work may affect cancer risk through circadian disruption, what the evidence shows, and practical steps — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Nitrosamines and Cancer
What nitrosamines are, how they form in food, tobacco, and rarely in medicines, their suspected cancer links, and how exposure is reduced — based on IARC, NCI, and FDA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Oral Contraceptives and Cancer Risk
How birth control pills affect cancer risk in both directions, why they are still classified as carcinogenic, and what the overall picture means — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
ortho-Toluidine and Cancer
What ortho-toluidine is, how workers are exposed, its bladder cancer link, and how exposure is controlled — based on IARC and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) and Cancer
What PFAS are, how people are exposed through water and products, what is known about their cancer links, and how to reduce exposure — based on NIEHS and EPA, with IARC classification.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Cancer
What PAHs are, how they form from burning and cooking, which cancers they are linked to, and how to reduce exposure — based on ATSDR and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Prop 65 and BPA (Bisphenol A)
What BPA is, why it was listed under Prop 65, how the warnings appeared on store shelves, and how to keep the risk in perspective — based on California's OEHHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Prop 65 and Coffee: The Acrylamide Story
Why coffee was nearly required to carry a cancer warning, how California ultimately decided it does not, and what the episode teaches about hazard versus risk — based on California's OEHHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Prop 65 and Glyphosate: A Legal Battle
How glyphosate was listed under Prop 65, why courts blocked enforcement of the warning on free-speech grounds, and what the dispute reveals — based on California's OEHHA and court rulings.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Prop 65 Safe-Harbor Levels (NSRL and MADL)
How California sets 'safe harbor' exposure levels below which no Prop 65 warning is required, and what the NSRL and MADL mean — based on California's OEHHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Radioactive Iodine and Cancer
What radioactive iodine (iodine-131) is, how exposure occurs from fallout and medical use, its thyroid cancer link, and how risk is managed — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
REACH: The EU's Chemical Safety Framework
What the REACH Regulation is, how it registers and controls chemicals, and how it can restrict or phase out carcinogens — based on ECHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Saccharin and Cancer
Why early rat studies raised concern about saccharin, why it was later cleared and removed from carcinogen lists, and what this history teaches about hazard versus risk — based on NCI and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Schistosomiasis and Bladder Cancer
What Schistosoma haematobium is, how people get infected from fresh water, its link to bladder cancer, and how to prevent infection — based on IARC and NCI.
- Side Effects
Sexual Health and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of how cancer treatment can affect sexual health for women and men, and how care teams help people manage these changes, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Soot and Cancer
What soot is, how chimney sweeps and others are exposed, its historic link to skin and lung cancer, and how exposure is reduced — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Strong Inorganic Acid Mists and Cancer
What sulfuric acid mists are, how workers are exposed, their link to laryngeal cancer, and how exposure is controlled — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Styrene and Cancer
What styrene is, how workers and the public are exposed, its suspected blood-cancer link, and how exposure is reduced — based on IARC and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Sulfur Mustard and Cancer
What sulfur mustard is, how exposure has occurred in warfare, its lung cancer link, and why it is banned — based on IARC and NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Talc and Cancer
What talc is, the difference between asbestos-contaminated and pure talc, IARC's 2024 evaluation, and how to weigh the evidence on ovarian cancer — based on IARC and NCI.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Tamoxifen and Cancer Risk
How tamoxifen both lowers breast cancer risk and slightly raises endometrial cancer risk, and how this balance is weighed — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Side Effects
Taste Changes and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of why cancer treatment can change the way food tastes and smells, and ways people manage it, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Tetrachloroethylene (Dry-Cleaning Solvent) and Cancer
What tetrachloroethylene (perc) is, how dry-cleaning workers and others are exposed, its suspected bladder cancer link, and how exposure is reduced — based on IARC and EPA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
The EU Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (Workplace)
How the EU's workplace directive protects workers from carcinogens through substitution, exposure minimization, and binding limits — based on EU-OSHA and EU law.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
The U.S. Report on Carcinogens (NTP), Explained
What the National Toxicology Program's Report on Carcinogens is, its two listing categories, and how it compares to IARC — based on the NTP.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Titanium Dioxide and Cancer
What titanium dioxide is, how inhaling its dust differs from using products that contain it, its possible cancer link, and how exposure is managed — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Trichloroethylene and Cancer
What trichloroethylene (TCE) is, how workers and communities are exposed, its kidney cancer link, and how exposure is reduced — based on the National Cancer Institute and EPA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Untreated Mineral Oils and Cancer
What untreated mineral oils are, how workers are exposed, their skin cancer link, and how modern refining reduces risk — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Very Hot Beverages and Cancer
Why drinks above about 65°C may raise esophageal cancer risk, what the evidence shows, and the simple fix of letting drinks cool — based on IARC.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Vinyl Chloride and Cancer
What vinyl chloride is, how workers are exposed, its link to a rare liver cancer, and how exposure is controlled — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Side Effects
Weight Changes During Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of why cancer and its treatment can cause weight loss or weight gain, and how care teams help people stay nourished, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
What a Prop 65 Warning Actually Means
How to read the yellow-triangle Prop 65 warning, what the 2018 label changes added, and how to respond without alarm — based on California's OEHHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
What Is a Carcinogen?
A plain-language explanation of what carcinogens are, how they can lead to cancer, and why a carcinogen label does not mean certain harm — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
What Is ECHA? The European Chemicals Agency
What the European Chemicals Agency does, how it manages REACH and CLP, and its role in identifying and controlling carcinogens — based on ECHA.
- Carcinogens & Regulation
Wood Dust and Cancer
How wood dust exposure happens in woodworking, its link to rare nasal cancers, and how to control the dust — based on the National Cancer Institute.
- Prevention & Risk
Air Pollution and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on how outdoor air pollution and fine particles are linked to lung cancer, based on IARC, National Cancer Institute, and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Alcohol and Cancer Risk
A plain-language look at how drinking alcohol raises the risk of several cancers, based on National Cancer Institute, IARC, and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Aspirin and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on the evidence linking long-term aspirin use to lower colorectal cancer risk, the bleeding risks involved, and why it is not right for everyone, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
BRCA Gene Changes and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes, the cancers they raise risk for, and options for people at high risk, based on the National Cancer Institute BRCA fact sheet.
- Screening
Breast Awareness: Knowing What Is Normal for You
A plain-language explainer on breast self-awareness, how it differs from a formal self-exam, and when to report changes, grounded in National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society guidance.
- Screening
Cancer Screening Guidelines by Age: A Plain Summary
A plain-language overview of which cancer screenings are commonly recommended and at roughly what ages, based on American Cancer Society early detection guidelines. Always confirm with your own doctor.
- Prevention & Risk
Cancer Vaccines for Prevention
A plain-language explainer on preventive cancer vaccines like HPV and hepatitis B, which stop infections that can lead to cancer, and how they differ from treatment vaccines, based on National Cancer Institute and CDC resources.
- Caregivers
Caregiver Burnout
A plain-language guide to recognizing and preventing caregiver burnout — the warning signs, why it happens, and concrete ways to protect your own health while caring for someone with cancer.
- Caregivers
Caring for Someone at the End of Life
A gentle, plain-language guide to end-of-life caregiving — what end-of-life care means, when to consider hospice, how to comfort someone who is dying, and when to call for professional help.
- Screening
Cervical Cancer Screening: When and How
A plain-language overview of cervical cancer screening — the Pap and HPV tests, when to start and stop, how often, and how the HPV vaccine fits in — based on CDC and National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Chemoprevention: Medicines to Lower Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on chemoprevention, the use of medicines to lower cancer risk in people at high risk, including examples and the balance of benefits and harms, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
Colonoscopy: What It Is and What to Expect
A plain-language guide to colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening — the prep, the sedation, polyp removal, and how often it's needed — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
Colorectal Cancer Screening: Your Options Explained
A plain-language overview of colorectal cancer screening — why it works, when to start, and how the main tests compare — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
Colposcopy: A Closer Look After an Abnormal Result
A plain-language guide to colposcopy — the follow-up procedure after an abnormal Pap or HPV test, including the cervical biopsy and what results like CIN mean — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
A plain-language guide to CT colonography, also called virtual colonoscopy — how this CT-based screening test works, the prep, and why a follow-up colonoscopy is needed if polyps are found — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
Dense Breasts and What They Mean for Screening
A plain-language guide to dense breasts — what breast density is, how it affects mammograms and breast cancer risk, and what notification laws mean — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Diet and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on how healthy eating patterns may lower cancer risk, and why supplements are not proven to prevent cancer, based on National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society resources.
- Prevention & Risk
E-Cigarettes and Cancer: What We Know So Far
A careful look at e-cigarettes and vaping, nicotine, the uncertain long-term cancer risk, and concerns about youth use, based on CDC and NCI resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Family History and Cancer Risk
How family history can raise cancer risk, the red flags that suggest an inherited pattern, and when to seek genetic counseling, explained in plain language using National Cancer Institute genetics resources.
- Costs & Practical Help
Financial Assistance for People With Cancer
A verified, plain-language directory of financial help for cancer patients and families — national helplines, copay foundations, government programs, and databases for finding local assistance.
- Screening
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Screening the Lower Colon
A plain-language guide to flexible sigmoidoscopy for colorectal cancer screening — what it examines, the lighter prep, and how it compares with colonoscopy — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Genetic Counseling: What to Expect
A plain-language guide to genetic counseling for inherited cancer risk — what a genetic counselor does before and after testing, and what it means for your family — based on the National Cancer Institute genetic testing fact sheet.
- Prevention & Risk
Genetic Testing for Inherited Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on genetic testing for inherited cancer risk — what it looks for, who might consider it, and what results mean — based on the National Cancer Institute genetic testing fact sheet.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Getting a Second Opinion
A plain-language guide to getting a second opinion after a cancer diagnosis — why people do it, how to ask your doctor, what records to gather, and what to do if the two opinions differ.
- Prevention & Risk
H. pylori and Stomach Cancer: Testing and Treatment
How the H. pylori bacterium is linked to stomach cancer, who should be tested, and how treatment can lower risk, based on NCI and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Hepatitis and Liver Cancer: Prevention and Care
How chronic hepatitis B and C raise liver cancer risk, and how the hepatitis B vaccine, testing, and treatment help lower it, based on NCI and CDC resources.
- Screening
How to Check Your Own Skin: The ABCDE Rule
A step-by-step, plain-language guide to checking your own skin for signs of skin cancer using the ABCDE rule, based on American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute guidance.
- Clinical Trials
How to Find a Clinical Trial
A plain-language, step-by-step guide to finding a cancer clinical trial — gathering your cancer details, searching ClinicalTrials.gov and NCI's trial search, and the questions to ask the research team.
- Prevention & Risk
HPV and Cancer: What You Need to Know
What HPV is, which cancers it can cause, how it spreads, and how vaccination and screening help prevent HPV-related cancers, based on NCI and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Indoor Tanning: Why There Is No Safe Tan
Why tanning beds and sun lamps raise the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers, especially for young people, explained in plain language using National Cancer Institute and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Infections and Cancer: How Germs Can Raise Risk
An overview of how certain viruses, bacteria, and parasites can lead to cancer, including HPV, hepatitis B and C, H. pylori, EBV, and HIV, based on NCI and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Lynch Syndrome: Inherited Colorectal and Other Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on Lynch syndrome, an inherited condition that raises the risk of colorectal, endometrial, and some other cancers, and what it means for screening, based on National Cancer Institute genetics resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Obesity and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on how excess body fat is linked to at least 13 cancers, and what weight and cancer risk mean, based on National Cancer Institute and CDC resources.
- Screening
Oral Cancer Screening: What a Dental Exam Checks For
A plain-language explainer on oral cancer screening during dental and medical exams, who is at higher risk, and the signs to watch for, grounded in National Cancer Institute guidance.
- Screening
Overdiagnosis: When Screening Finds a Cancer That Would Not Have Caused Harm
A clear, plain-language explanation of overdiagnosis and overtreatment in cancer screening, and why some cancers found by screening may never cause harm, grounded in National Cancer Institute guidance.
- Costs & Practical Help
Paying for Cancer Treatment: Insurance and Costs
A plain-language guide to cancer treatment costs — understanding your insurance, copays and deductibles, talking to your care team about money, and keeping bills organized.
- Prevention & Risk
Physical Activity and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on how regular physical activity can lower the risk of several cancers and help survivors, based on National Cancer Institute and CDC resources.
- Caregivers
Practical Help: What Caregivers Actually Do
A plain-language guide to the practical side of cancer caregiving — appointments, medicines, meals, rides, organizing helpers, and knowing when to call the care team.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Preparing for Doctor Appointments
A plain-language guide to getting ready for cancer care appointments — what to bring, how to track your medical information, and how to make sure your questions get answered.
- Screening
Prostate Cancer Screening: Making the Decision With Your Doctor
A plain-language guide to the shared decision behind prostate cancer screening, including the PSA test, digital rectal exam, benefits and harms, and USPSTF guidance for ages 55 to 69, grounded in the National Cancer Institute PSA fact sheet.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Questions to Ask Your Oncologist
Plain-language lists of questions to ask your cancer care team about your diagnosis, treatment options, side effects, and daily life — based on National Cancer Institute suggestions.
- Prevention & Risk
Quitting Smoking: Benefits and Ways to Get Help
The health benefits of quitting smoking over time and the proven ways to quit, including counseling, quitlines, and medicines, based on NCI, CDC, and ACS resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Radon and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on radon, an invisible gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer, including how to test your home and reduce levels, based on National Cancer Institute, EPA, and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Red and Processed Meat and Cancer Risk
A plain-language explainer on why processed meat is classed as cancer-causing, why red meat is a probable cause, and how to limit intake, based on IARC, National Cancer Institute, and American Cancer Society resources.
- Living With Cancer
Remembering Michael "Mike" Canaday (1946–2024)
A tribute to Michael T. Canaday—Army veteran, Altamont entrepreneur, and champion border collie handler—who died of cancer in 2024, with cancer-awareness notes and ways to honor his memory.
- Prevention & Risk
Secondhand Smoke and Cancer Risk
What secondhand smoke is, how it causes lung cancer in nonsmokers, and why there is no safe level of exposure, based on NCI, CDC, and ACS resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Skin Cancer Prevention: Lowering Your Risk
A plain-language overview of how to lower your skin cancer risk through sun protection, avoiding tanning beds, and knowing your risk, based on the National Cancer Institute's skin cancer prevention summary.
- Screening
Skin Cancer Screening: What a Professional Skin Exam Involves
A plain-language look at professional skin exams for skin cancer, who is at higher risk, and what a dermatologist checks, grounded in National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society guidance.
- Prevention & Risk
Smokeless Tobacco: Not a Safe Alternative
How smokeless tobacco like chew, snuff, and dip raises the risk of oral and other cancers, and why it is not a safe substitute for smoking, based on NCI, CDC, and ACS resources.
- Screening
Stool Tests for Colorectal Cancer Screening
A plain-language guide to at-home stool tests for colorectal cancer — gFOBT, FIT, and stool DNA tests — how they work and what a positive result means, based on National Cancer Institute and CDC resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Sun Safety: Simple Ways to Protect Your Skin
A plain-language guide to protecting your skin from the sun, based on guidance from the National Cancer Institute, CDC, and American Cancer Society.
- Prevention & Risk
Sunscreen: What to Look For and How to Use It
A plain-language guide to choosing and using sunscreen — broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, how much to apply, and its limits — based on CDC, FDA, and American Cancer Society guidance.
- Screening
Testicular Self-Exam: How to Check and What Is Normal
A calm, plain-language guide to checking your own testicles for changes, what normal feels like, and when to tell a doctor, based on National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society guidance.
- Screening
The Benefits and Harms of Cancer Screening: Why It Is a Balance
A plain-language look at the benefits and harms of cancer screening, from early detection to false positives and overdiagnosis, and why screening is a balance, grounded in National Cancer Institute guidance.
- Screening
The HPV Test for Cervical Cancer Screening
A plain-language guide to the HPV test — how it checks for the virus that causes most cervical cancers, what primary HPV testing and co-testing mean, and what a positive result means — based on CDC and National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
The HPV Vaccine: Preventing Cancer Before It Starts
What the HPV vaccine prevents, who should get it and at what ages, and its strong safety record, based on NCI and CDC resources.
- Screening
The Pap Test: What It Finds and What to Expect
A plain-language guide to the Pap test for cervical cancer screening — what it checks for, what happens during the test, and what results mean — based on CDC and National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Tobacco and Cancer: How Smoking Harms the Body
How tobacco use causes many types of cancer, the harmful chemicals involved, and the benefits of not smoking, based on NCI, CDC, and ACS resources.
- Screening
Understanding Screening Results: What an Abnormal Result Means
A calm, plain-language guide to cancer screening results, including false positives, false negatives, and what happens after an abnormal result, grounded in National Cancer Institute guidance.
- Prevention & Risk
UV Radiation and Cancer: How Sun Damage Adds Up
How ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds damages skin cells and raises skin cancer risk, explained in plain language using National Cancer Institute and CDC resources.
- Costs & Practical Help
Working During Cancer Treatment
A plain-language guide to working through cancer treatment — deciding what's realistic, telling your employer, reasonable accommodations under the ADA, and leave under the FMLA.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Biopsy: How Cancer Is Confirmed
A plain-language guide to biopsies — the procedures that remove a tissue sample so a pathologist can check for cancer — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Blood and Lab Tests Used in Cancer
A plain-language guide to the lab tests used to help diagnose and monitor cancer — including the CBC, blood chemistry, tumor markers, and liquid biopsy — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
CT Scans: What They Are and What to Expect
A plain-language guide to CT (computed tomography) scans in cancer care — how they work, what to expect, contrast dye, and radiation — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Imaging Tests for Cancer: Scans Explained
A plain-language guide to the imaging tests (scans) used in cancer care — CT, MRI, PET, nuclear and bone scans, ultrasound, and X-rays — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
Lung Cancer Screening with Low-Dose CT
A plain-language guide to lung cancer screening with low-dose CT — who it's for, its benefits and harms — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
Mammograms: Breast Cancer Screening Explained
A plain-language guide to mammograms — what they show, what to expect, how results are reported (BI-RADS), and when to be screened — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
MRI Scans for Cancer: What to Expect
A plain-language guide to MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) in cancer care — how it works, what to expect, and how it differs from CT — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
PET Scans and PET/CT for Cancer
A plain-language guide to PET scans and combined PET/CT in cancer care — how they work and what they show — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
Testicular Cancer: A Plain-Language Guide
A calm, plain-language overview of testicular cancer — what it is, who it affects, and its outlook — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
The PSA Test: Prostate Cancer Screening Explained
A plain-language guide to the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test — what it measures, its benefits and harms as a screening tool, and why it's a shared decision — based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Anemia and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of anemia during cancer treatment—what it is, its signs, why it happens, and ways to manage it—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia) and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of bleeding and bruising during cancer treatment—how low platelets cause it, warning signs to call about, and ways to prevent it—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Cancer Prevention: An Overview
A plain-language overview of what cancer prevention means and the actions that can lower cancer risk, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Screening
Cancer Screening: An Overview
A plain-language overview of what cancer screening is, its goals, and its benefits and harms, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Cancer Staging: What the Stage Means
A plain-language explanation of cancer staging, including the widely used TNM system and stage numbers, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Living With Cancer
Cancer Survivorship and Life After Treatment
A plain-language guide to cancer survivorship—what it means, adjusting to a 'new normal,' coping with the fear of recurrence, and caring for your mind and body—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Caregivers
Caregiver Self-Care
A plain-language guide to taking care of yourself while caring for someone with cancer—making time for yourself, understanding your feelings, and protecting your own health—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Caregivers
Caring for Someone with Cancer
A plain-language guide for cancer caregivers—what caregiving involves, coping with changing roles, asking for help, and long-distance caregiving—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Chemo Brain: Memory and Concentration Problems
A plain-language explanation of memory and concentration problems during cancer treatment—often called chemo brain—and ways to manage them, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Basics
Common Cancer Myths and Misconceptions
A plain-language look at common cancer myths—about sugar, contagion, attitude, cell phones, deodorants, and more—and what the science actually shows, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Constipation and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language look at why constipation happens during cancer treatment and the ways people can prevent and relieve it, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Diarrhea and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of why diarrhea happens during cancer treatment, how it is managed, and when to call your team, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Living With Cancer
Emotions and Cancer
A plain-language guide to the wide range of emotions cancer can bring—from fear and anger to hope and gratitude—and healthy ways to cope, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Fatigue and Cancer
A plain-language explanation of cancer-related fatigue—what causes it, how it differs from ordinary tiredness, and ways to manage it—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Hair Loss (Alopecia) and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language guide to hair loss during cancer treatment—why it happens, how to care for your scalp, and when hair usually grows back—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
How Cancer Is Diagnosed
A plain-language guide to the tests and procedures used to diagnose cancer, including lab tests, imaging scans, and biopsies, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Infection and Neutropenia During Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of infection and neutropenia during cancer treatment—why the risk goes up, the signs to watch for, and ways to prevent infection—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Clinical Trials
Joining a Clinical Trial
A plain-language guide to the possible risks and benefits of joining a cancer clinical trial and questions to ask first, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Lymphedema and Cancer
A plain-language explanation of lymphedema—swelling from a buildup of lymph fluid—including its causes, signs, diagnosis, treatment, and ways to lower your risk, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Living With Cancer
Making Future Plans With Advanced Cancer
A plain-language guide to planning ahead with advanced cancer—advance directives, insurance, organizing records, and funeral wishes—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Basics
Metastatic Cancer: When Cancer Spreads
A plain-language explanation of metastatic cancer — how cancer spreads, where it commonly spreads, possible symptoms, and treatment goals, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Mouth and Throat Problems and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of mouth and throat problems during cancer treatment—what causes them, which problems may occur, and ways to prevent and manage them—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Nausea and Vomiting and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of nausea and vomiting during cancer treatment—what causes them, the medicines that prevent them, and eating and comfort tips—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Living With Cancer
Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
A plain-language guide to eating well during cancer treatment—why nutrition needs change, how to manage eating problems, and what nutrition support options exist—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Pain and Cancer
A plain-language guide to cancer-related pain—what causes it, how a pain control plan works, the types of pain medicine, and non-drug approaches—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Peripheral Neuropathy and Cancer Treatment
A plain-language explanation of peripheral neuropathy—nerve problems such as tingling and numbness in the hands and feet that some cancer treatments can cause—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Side Effects of Cancer Treatment
A plain-language overview of why cancer and its treatment cause side effects, and why speaking up helps your team manage them, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Skin and Nail Changes During Cancer Treatment
A plain-language guide to skin and nail side effects of cancer treatment—like dryness, rash, and nail problems—and gentle ways to manage them, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Sleep Problems in People With Cancer
A plain-language look at why sleep problems are common during cancer treatment and the steps that can help you rest better, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Symptoms
Symptoms of Cancer: What to Watch For
A plain-language overview of common symptoms that cancer may cause and when to see a doctor, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Caregivers
Talking to Children About Your Cancer
A plain-language guide to talking with your kids, teens, and adult children about your cancer diagnosis, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Clinical Trials
The Phases of Clinical Trials
A plain-language explanation of the four phases of cancer clinical trials and how randomization works, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Tumor Markers
A plain-language explanation of what tumor markers are, how they are used in cancer care, and why a single result is read alongside other tests—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
Types of Cancer Treatment: An Overview
A plain-language overview of the main types of cancer treatment, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Prevention & Risk
Understanding Cancer Risk Factors
A plain-language look at what cancer risk factors are and how scientists study them, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Basics
Understanding Cancer Statistics
A plain-language guide to what cancer statistics mean, how they are used, and key figures on the burden of cancer in the United States and worldwide, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Diagnosis & Staging
Understanding Your Pathology Report
A plain-language guide to what a surgical pathology report is, what information it contains, and how tissue is examined, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Side Effects
Weight Changes, Appetite Loss, and Cancer
A plain-language guide to appetite loss, weight loss, weight gain, and malnutrition during cancer treatment, with practical eating tips, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Are Brain Tumors?
A plain-language overview of brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) tumors, including the difference between benign and malignant, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Clinical Trials
What Are Clinical Trials?
A plain-language explanation of what cancer clinical trials are, why they matter, and the main types, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Basics
What Causes Cancer? Understanding Risk Factors
A plain-language look at what raises the risk of cancer, how scientists identify risk factors, and which factors are most studied, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
What Is a Stem Cell Transplant?
A plain-language explanation of stem cell (bone marrow) transplants for cancer, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Bladder Cancer?
A plain-language overview of bladder cancer, where it starts, its main types, and how it is found and treated, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Breast Cancer?
A plain-language overview of breast cancer, where it starts, and how it is found and treated, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Basics
What Is Cancer?
A plain-language explanation of what cancer is, how cancer cells differ from normal cells, and how genetic changes cause cancer, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Cervical Cancer?
A plain-language overview of cervical cancer, where it starts, its main types, and how it is found, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
What Is Chemotherapy?
A plain-language explanation of how chemotherapy works, why it causes side effects, and what to expect, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
A plain-language explanation of colorectal cancer, how it often starts as a polyp, and why removing polyps can help, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Esophageal Cancer?
A plain-language overview of esophageal cancer, where it starts, and its two most common types, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Head and Neck Cancer?
A plain-language overview of head and neck cancers, where they form, their common causes, and typical symptoms, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
What Is Hormone Therapy for Cancer?
A plain-language explanation of how hormone therapy slows or stops the growth of cancers that use hormones, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Living With Cancer
What Is Hospice Care?
A plain-language explanation of hospice care for people with cancer—what it includes, where it happens, and how it differs from palliative care—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
What Is Immunotherapy?
A plain-language explanation of how immunotherapy helps the immune system fight cancer, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Kidney Cancer?
A plain-language overview of kidney cancer, where it starts, its main types, and how it is found, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Leukemia?
A plain-language explanation of leukemia, a group of blood cell cancers, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Liver Cancer?
A plain-language overview of liver cancer, where it starts, its signs and symptoms, and the main types, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Lung Cancer?
A plain-language overview of lung cancer, its two main types, and its main cause, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Lymphoma?
A plain-language explanation of lymphoma, a cancer that begins in the lymph system, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Melanoma?
A plain-language explanation of melanoma, how it differs from other skin cancers, and how UV radiation can lead to skin cancer, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Multiple Myeloma?
A plain-language overview of multiple myeloma and other plasma cell neoplasms, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Ovarian Cancer?
A plain-language overview of ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer, where it starts, and how it is found, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Living With Cancer
What Is Palliative Care?
A plain-language explanation of palliative care in cancer—what it is, who provides it, and how it differs from hospice—based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Pancreatic Cancer?
A plain-language explanation of pancreatic cancer and the two kinds of cells it can start in, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Prostate Cancer?
A plain-language look at prostate cancer, why it often grows slowly, and what screening involves, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
What Is Radiation Therapy?
A plain-language explanation of how radiation therapy works, the two main types, and what to expect, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Stomach Cancer?
A plain-language overview of stomach (gastric) cancer, where it starts in the stomach, and the main types, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
What Is Surgery for Cancer?
A plain-language explanation of how surgery is used to treat cancer, the types of surgery, and what to expect, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
What Is Targeted Therapy?
A plain-language explanation of how targeted therapy works against cancer, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Thyroid Cancer?
A plain-language overview of thyroid cancer, where it starts, its main types, and how it is found, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Types
What Is Uterine Cancer?
A plain-language overview of uterine cancer, focusing on endometrial cancer, where it starts, and how it is found, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
This week in cancer news
- Awareness
World No Tobacco Day: The Single Biggest Preventable Cause of Cancer
Every May 31, World No Tobacco Day highlights the harms of tobacco. Here is a calm, NCI-based look at the link between tobacco and cancer — and the benefits of quitting.
- In memory
Remembering Wilko Johnson: A Pancreatic Cancer Story Unlike Most
The Dr. Feelgood guitarist was told in 2013 he had months to live with pancreatic cancer — then a rarer diagnosis changed everything. He died in 2022.
- Research
What Is CAR T-Cell Therapy? The Treatment Making Headlines, Explained
CAR T-cell therapy uses a person's own immune cells to fight cancer. Here's what it is, which cancers it treats, and what to keep in mind.
- Research
What Is a 'Liquid Biopsy'? The Blood Test Behind Cancer Headlines
Liquid biopsy is a blood test that looks for cancer's fingerprints in the bloodstream. Here's what it is, how it's used, and its current limits.
- Awareness
UV Safety Awareness Month: Small Habits That Protect Your Skin
Every July, UV Safety Awareness Month reminds us to protect our skin and eyes from ultraviolet radiation. Here is calm, NCI-based guidance on sun safety.
- Public figure
What Tom Green's Story Can Teach Us About Testicular Cancer
At the height of his MTV fame in 2000, the comedian was diagnosed with testicular cancer — and turned his own surgery into an awareness special. Here is what his story can help us understand.
- Public figure
What Tig Notaro's Story Can Help Us Understand About Breast Cancer
The comedian turned her 2012 bilateral breast cancer diagnosis into one of comedy's most famous sets — and a life of matter-of-fact openness. Here is what breast cancer actually is.
- In memory
Remembering Syd Barrett: Understanding Pancreatic Cancer
The Pink Floyd co-founder died of pancreatic cancer in 2006 at age 60. Here's what pancreatic cancer is — and what the NCI honestly says about it.
- In memory
Remembering Sven-Göran Eriksson and Understanding Pancreatic Cancer
Former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson died of pancreatic cancer in 2024. Here is what pancreatic cancer means, explained calmly and plainly.
- Research
The Surgeon General's 2025 Advisory on Alcohol and Cancer, Explained
In January 2025, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory linking alcohol to cancer risk. Here's what it says and what the science behind it shows.
- Awareness
Stomach Cancer Awareness Month: Learning About a Cancer With Some Preventable Causes
Every November, Stomach Cancer Awareness Month highlights a cancer where certain risk factors, including an infection, can often be addressed. Here is what NCI says.
- In memory
What Stephen Jay Gould's Story Can Help Us Understand About Mesothelioma — and Statistics
The scientist survived peritoneal mesothelioma for two decades and wrote 'The Median Isn't the Message.' Here is what that cancer is, explained calmly.
- Research
U.S. Smoking at Historic Lows: What It Means for Cancer
The U.S. adult smoking rate has fallen below 10% for the first time. Here's why that's such good news for cancer — and the caveats that remain.
- Public figure
What Sarah Ferguson's Two Diagnoses Can Teach Us About Breast Cancer and Melanoma
The Duchess of York faced breast cancer in 2023 and melanoma in 2024, both found through routine care. Here is what her story can help us understand about two very different cancers.
- Public figure
What Saku Koivu's Story Can Help Us Understand About Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
The hockey captain was treated for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and returned to a legendary ovation. Here is what that cancer means, explained calmly.
- Awareness
Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and the Colonoscopies That Started With a Bet
The Wrexham co-owners filmed their colonoscopies for the Lead From Behind campaign — and both had polyps removed. Here is why that punchline is actually the point of screening.
- In memory
What Ryan O'Neal's Story Can Help Us Understand About Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
The actor lived openly with chronic myeloid leukemia for more than two decades before his death in 2023. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly.
- In memory
What Rosalind Franklin's Story Can Help Us Understand About Ovarian Cancer
The scientist whose work helped reveal DNA's structure died of ovarian cancer in 1958 at age 37. Here is what that cancer means, explained calmly.
- In memory
Remembering Roger Maris and Understanding Lymphoma
Baseball's Roger Maris, who broke the single-season home run record, died of lymphoma in 1985. Here is what lymphoma means, explained plainly.
- In memory
Remembering Phil Lesh: A Life That Included Prostate and Bladder Cancer
The Grateful Dead co-founder, who died in 2024 at 84, had publicly shared earlier diagnoses of prostate and bladder cancer — and urged fans to get checked.
Worth revisiting
Cornerstone guides — the picks rotate weekly.
- Clinical Trials
What Are Clinical Trials?
A plain-language explanation of what cancer clinical trials are, why they matter, and the main types, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Cancer Basics
What Is Cancer?
A plain-language explanation of what cancer is, how cancer cells differ from normal cells, and how genetic changes cause cancer, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
- Treatments
Types of Cancer Treatment: An Overview
A plain-language overview of the main types of cancer treatment, based on National Cancer Institute resources.
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