Oncology in Israel

Colorectal (colon) cancer is the third most common oncologic disease in the US. Common risk factors include colon polyps, family history, colitis, age and ethnicity. Common early symptoms include bloating, diarrhea or constipation and blood in stool). However, as these generally are unspecific, regular screenings are important.

Most uterine cancers are endometrial, meaning they develop in the lining of the uterus. The disease most commonly develops after menopause. Treatment is most effective when the disease is found at an early stage.

Breast cancer is the second most common malignancy in US women (after skin cancer). It affects approximately 10-12% of women worldwide. It develops in the cells of the mammary glands and can also, rarely, affect men. When detected early, the disease has a very good prognosis, with a five-year survival rate of over 90%.

Thyroid cancers are relatively uncommon. However, with timely treatment, both cure and 10-year survival rates are very high. While experts don’t yet have a definitive answer as to what causes the condition, exposure to radiation (including radiation treatment) is considered a major contributing factor.

Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries. The tumor’s characteristics will depend on which of the three different types of cells present in the ovaries the type it develops from (epithelial, germ cell or stromal).

When found early, it can often be successfully treated. The disease can be diagnosed by means of a PAP-smear.

Tumors developing in the larynx are mostly malignant and have a significant effect the quality of life. Common symptoms of the disease are hoarseness, painful swallowing, earache and the development of a mass in the neck. When diagnosed at an early stage, the disease is treatable.

Cervical cancer occurs due to growth of abnormal cervical cells. When found early, it can often be successfully treated. The disease can be diagnosed by means of a PAP-smear.