Cancer treatment is a grueling process that takes its toll on the body and mind of the affected. The disease is already tough, and the treatments can bring numerous complications along with them.

One such complication that arises with cancer treatments is the risk of developing secondary cancers.

What is secondary cancer?

Secondary cancer, also known as metastatic cancer, occurs when cancer cells spread throughout the body from their original location.

In the case of cancer treatment-induced secondary cancer, the cells develop because of the therapies used to treat the primary cancer. Given that the treatment methods target cancerous cells, it is not unusual for healthy cells to be irreversibly damaged, leading to new cancer formation.

How common is secondary cancer?

Studies suggest that cancer treatment can leave lasting damage to the body and increase the risk of developing a new cancer.

According to the National Cancer Institute, around 1 in 5 cancer survivors will develop a secondary cancer within the first decade of remission. Though the exact risk varies depending on factors such as age, the types of treatments used, and cancer type, the chance of developing a secondary cancer remains a real possibility for cancer patients.

Why does secondary cancer develop?

The cancer treatments that lead to secondary cancers are designed to eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. However, some healthy cells inevitably get damaged, and over time, this can develop into a new cancer.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are known to cause DNA changes in healthy cells, leading to genetic damage and potentially cancerous cell growth.

What are the types of secondary cancer?

Secondary cancer can develop in the same area as the primary cancer or in other parts of the body. For instance, a woman who previously had breast cancer may develop lung cancer due to the treatments she received.

Alternatively, a man with prostate cancer may later develop colon cancer. Regardless of where the new cancer appears, its cause is the same: the treatments used for the primary cancer.

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What are the symptoms of secondary cancer?

The symptoms of secondary cancer depend on where the cancer develops. In some cases, there might be no symptoms, making it difficult to detect.

However, some of the common symptoms of secondary cancer can include persistent and unexplained pain, coughing, sudden weight loss, and unusual bleeding.

Can secondary cancer be prevented?

At the moment, there is no foolproof way to avoid developing secondary cancer after primary cancer treatment.

However, with proper screening and surveillance, it is possible to detect any new cancer formation early, making it easier to manage the condition. Health care providers usually conduct regular check-ups, scans, and tests to monitor their patients for any new cancer formation.

How is secondary cancer treated?

Secondary cancer is treated in the same way as primary cancer, with options including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

However, the treatment for secondary cancer is a little different, and the doctor treating the condition must consider a range of factors. These include the type of primary cancer, the treatments used, the location of the new cancer, and the patient’s overall health.

What can patients do to reduce the risk of secondary cancer?

The following are some steps patients can take to reduce the risk of developing secondary cancer:.

1. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Research suggests that maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help lower the risk of developing secondary cancer.
2. Being aware of the risk factors: Patients should discuss their risk factors for secondary cancer with their healthcare providers. This can help the doctors determine the necessary screening and surveillance schedule.
3. Following up regularly with healthcare providers: Regular follow-ups and check-ups can help detect any new cancer early, making it easier to treat and manage.

Conclusion

Secondary cancer is a potential complication that arises with cancer treatments.

While the risk of developing secondary cancer cannot be entirely eliminated, taking steps such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, being aware of the risk factors, and regular follow-up appointments can help detect any new cancer early and improve cancer outcomes.