Introduction to Cancer: Causes and Types

Study Notes

Cancer Overview

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth.
It arises from failures in mechanisms controlling cell division, growth, and death.
Uncontrolled abnormal cell growth forms tumors, which can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Malignant tumors invade surrounding tissues and may metastasize (spread) to other body parts.
Cancers vary based on tissue/organ origin, including lung, breast, colon, and leukemia.
Cancer encompasses diverse diseases with differing causes, characteristics, and treatments.

Causes of Cancer

Genetic mutations (inherited or acquired) increase cancer risk.
Exposure to carcinogens (chemicals, radiation, certain viruses) contributes to cancer.
Lifestyle factors (smoking, diet, inactivity, obesity) elevate cancer risk.
Certain chronic infections increase cancer risk in some populations.

Types of Cancer and Development

Cancer development is a multi-step process, often involving multiple genetic mutations over many years.
Different cancers have varying properties regarding cell origin, growth rate, and treatment response.
Some cancers progress slowly, others rapidly.
Specific mutations cause uncontrolled cell growth/division, beginning tumor formation.

Tumor Characteristics

Benign tumors are typically encapsulated and do not invade other tissues. They can cause issues if they grow large and compress organs/vessels.
Malignant tumors lack encapsulation, are invasive, exhibiting abnormal cell shapes, faster growth, and unusual behaviors.
Metastasis, the spread of cancerous cells to distant sites via the circulatory or lymphatic systems, is a hallmark of malignant tumors.

Cancer Diagnosis

Diagnosis uses a combination of physical exams, imaging (X-rays, CT, MRI), biopsies, and blood tests.
Blood tests (like complete blood counts) provide information regarding cancer progression, treatment response, and overall impact on the body.

Cancer Treatment

Treatment options depend on the cancer type, stage, patient's health, and choose from various options, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy.
The goal is to remove/destroy cancer cells, shrink tumors, reduce spread, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life.

Cancer Prevention

A healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco) reduces cancer risk.
Regular screenings (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies) detect cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.
Reduced exposure to known carcinogens is essential for prevention.

Description

This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of cancer, including its definition, types, and the various causes behind this complex disease. You'll learn about the differences between benign and malignant tumors, as well as the role of genetic mutations and environmental factors in cancer development.