Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Worldwide, cancer kills more than malaria, AIDS and tuberculosis combined according to the Centers for Disease Control.
 
That is because there are more than 100 different types of cancers. With so many people being affected with one form of cancer or another, it makes sense that a majority of the people who enter into Las Vegas hospice and palliative care are battling this devastating disease.
 

Cancer 101

Cancer is a condition that develops when the cells in the body reproduce excessively. This growth leads to a tumor. The tumor can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are essentially harmless and can be removed easily. Malignant tumors are what people call cancer and can be life-threatening.
 
The problem with malignant tumors is that the damaged cells can travel through the body and cause cancer to grow in areas that were previously healthy. This process is called metastasis.
 

Treatment

Because there are so many different types of cancer, treatment options vary widely. Available treatment options also depend on where the cancer is in a particular organ and how much it has metastasized, if at all.
 
Thankfully, there are many choices of treatment for cancer patients. If one doesn’t work, the doctor usually has a back up plan or two to try to kill the cancer cells.
 
This is why it is so important for patients to seek a second and third opinion when it comes to the diagnosis of their conditions. Experienced oncologists tend to specialize in one type of cancer or another. If yours does not specialize in the type of cancer you have, don’t be afraid to request another opinion.
 

Cancer in Palliative & Hospice Las Vegas Care

In the event that a cancer cannot be treated, palliative and hospice Las Vegas care becomes an option. This is when the doctor’s attention switches from curing the patient to making him or her as comfortable as possible.
 
Even before the cancer is deemed untreatable, palliative care is a great way to manage the symptoms and side effects of cancer. That is because the ultimate goal is to improve your quality of life. Palliative care was actually created solely for this reason.
 
Even though this is the case, it is wrong if you think that you are giving up by choosing a hospice Las Vegas center. Choosing hospice and palliative care means the best interests of you and your family are at the forefront of your mind.
 
If you are considering hospice care, choose the best in ProCare Hospice of Nevada. For more information about Las Vegas hospice services, contact 702.380.8300.