What are the stages of cancer development and the role of carcinogens?
Understand the Problem
The question is discussing the stages of cancer development, particularly focusing on initiation and promotion, including the role of carcinogens and the immune system in tumor formation.
Answer
Cancer develops in three stages: initiation, promotion, and progression, with carcinogens causing genetic changes in these stages.
The stages of cancer development are initiation, promotion, and progression. Carcinogens can cause genetic mutations during initiation, and repeated exposure leads to promotion where mutated cells form tumors. Progression involves tumor growth and spread.
Answer for screen readers
The stages of cancer development are initiation, promotion, and progression. Carcinogens can cause genetic mutations during initiation, and repeated exposure leads to promotion where mutated cells form tumors. Progression involves tumor growth and spread.
More Information
Carcinogens, such as chemicals, radiation, and viruses, are known to initiate and promote cancer by causing genetic mutations. A healthy immune system can often destroy early mutated cells, preventing tumor development.
Tips
Avoid confusing initiation with invasion; initiation involves genetic changes, whereas invasion is the spread of cancer cells. Differentiate between the impact of carcinogens and other risk factors like genetics.
Sources
- Cancer Development - CancerQuest - cancerquest.org
- Development and Spread of Cancer - Merck Manuals - merckmanuals.com
- Overview of Cancer - Oncology Nursing Society - ons.org
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