There are many different types of cancer. For information on a specific cancer, see the box to the left.
What is cancer?
Cancer is a group of conditions where the body's cells begin to grow and reproduce in an uncontrollable way. These cells can then invade and destroy healthy tissue, including organs.
Cancer sometimes begins in one part of the body before spreading to other parts. This process is known as metastasis.
Spotting signs of cancer
Some changes to your body can be a sign of cancer and it is important to get them checked out by a doctor. Go to Signs and symptoms of cancer for information on spotting cancer.
Types of cancer
You can find more information about specific types of cancer by following the links in the box to the left.
Reduce your risk of cancer
Making some simple changes to your lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer. Eating a healthy diet, taking regular exercise and avoiding smoking will all help to lower your risk.
To learn how a healthy lifestyle can reduce your chances of getting cancer, go to our cancer prevention pages.
How common is cancer?
Cancer is a common condition. Around 298,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK. More than one in three people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime.
The most common cancers in the UK are:
Cancer treatment
Treatments for cancer include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Waiting times
Currently, all patients referred with suspected cancer by their GP have a maximum two-weeks wait to see a specialist.
Cancer patients should wait no more than 31 days from decision to treat to the start of their first treatment.
Find cancer services
Find local cancer support services
Find NHS cancer services
