DELHI PUBLIC SCHOOL, KALINGA

BIOLOGY INVESTIGATORY PROJEct

CANCER: AN OVERVIEW
(As per the partial fulfillment of SSCE 2024-25 of CBSE, New Delhi)

SUBMITTED BY:- GUIDED BY:-

Akankshya Swain Mr. Sanjay Kumar Jena
SSCE Roll no.: Mr. V VeeraBhadra Rao
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I take this opportunity to express mt gratitude to all
those who have helped me in completing this project
entitled “CANCER: AN OVERVIEW” for the partial
fulfillment of “All India Secondary School
Examination 2024-25”.
I am extremely thankful to my principal Mrs.
Anuradha Rakshit for her willing help and valuable
guidance.
I thank my teachers Mr. Sanjay Jena and Mr. V. Veera
Bhadra Rao for their guidance and constant
encouragement and critical analysis.
I extend my thanks to our Lab Assistant Mr.
Bidhuranjan Panda for his patience and help. I thank
my family members and friends for their kind
cooperation.
Last but not the least, I would like to thank CBSE for
giving this opportunity to undertake this project.

SUBMITTED BY: - Akankshya Swain

PAGE 1
 CONTENTS

 Introduction
 What is Cancer?
 Human Cancer Cells
 What is Metastasis?
 Agents of Cancer
 Precancerous Conditions
 Causes of Cancer
 Types of Cancer
(Breast, Prostate, Leukemia, Ewings Sarcoma, Eye
Cancer)
 Detection and Diagnosis
 Treatment
 Investigatory Analysis
 Conclusion
 Bibliography

PAGE 2
 INTRODUCTION
Cancer is one of the most formidable challenges in modern
medicine, affecting millions of people worldwide each year.
This project explores the complexity of cancer, a group of
diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth that can
invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant parts of
the body. Understanding cancer involves examining the
intricate biological mechanisms that drive its development,
including genetic mutations, environmental factors, and
lifestyle choices that increase risk. This project will delve
into the different types of cancer, current treatment
modalities, the latest advancements in research, and the
crucial role of prevention and early detection. Through this
study, we aim to highlight not only the challenges of
combating cancer but also the hope and progress made
toward more effective treatments, improving survival rates,
and enhancing patients' quality of life.

PAGE 3
 WHAT IS CANCER?
Cancer is a complex disease in which cells in the body begin
to grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Normally, cells
follow a cycle: they grow, divide, and eventually die in a
regulated manner. This process is controlled by specific
genes in our DNA that tell cells when to start and stop
dividing. However, when these genes are damaged or
mutated, cells can begin to behave differently. They may
ignore the usual signals to stop growing, avoid the natural
process of cell death, and instead continue dividing. As these
cancerous cells multiply, they can form a lump called a
tumor. Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or
malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumors have the
potential to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts
of the body through the blood and lymphatic systems, a
process known as metastasis. Cancer can develop in nearly
any part of the body, and there are many different types,
each with unique characteristics, risk factors, and
treatment approaches. While the exact causes of cancer can
vary, they often involve a combination of genetic factors and
environmental exposures, such as smoking, diet, radiation,
infections, or certain chemicals. Early detection and
treatment are essential for improving outcomes, and
advancements in research continue to improve our
understanding and treatment of this complex disease.

PAGE 4
 CANCER CELLS

Normal cells Cancerous cells

Growth Stop when there's Uncontrolled growth
enough

Communication Respond to signals Do not respond to

from other cells signals from other cells

Cell repair/death Aged/damaged cells Cells are neither

are repaired or repaired or replaced
replaced
Stickiness/ Stay together in Can travel solo and
spread assigned area throughout the body

Appearance Uniform look under Varied sizes, larger

a microscope and darker centre
under a microscope
Maturation Reach maturity Do not reach maturity

Evasion of Can be targeted and Can "hide" and grow

immune system eliminated uninterrupted

Function Perform designated Fail to perform

tasks designated tasks

PAGE 5
 Blood supply Blood vessels grow Blood vessels grow
to feed normal regardless, constantly
growth and aid in "feeding" a tumor
repairs

Tumors are abnormal growths of cells that form lumps

or masses in the body. Normally, cells grow and divide
in an orderly way to replace old or damaged cells.
However, when this process goes wrong, cells can start
to grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of a
tumor.

TYPES OF TUMORS:
Malignant Tumors Benign Tumors
Cancerous Not cancerous
May invade surrounding Doesn’t invade
tissue surrounding tissue
Most grow rapidly Most grow slowly
Needs Treatment May not need treatment
Irregular shape Smooth shape
PAGE 6
 WHAT IS METASTASIS?
Metastasis is the process by which cancer cells spread
from the original (primary) tumor site to other parts of
the body. This happens when cancer cells break away
from the primary tumor, travel through the bloodstream
or lymphatic system, and establish new tumors (called
secondary or metastatic tumors) in other organs or
tissues. Metastatic cancer is usually more difficult to
treat than cancer that remains localized, as it can affect
multiple organs or areas. Common sites for metastasis
include the bones, liver, lungs, and brain, though
metastatic cancer can spread to almost any part of the
body.

PAGE 7
 PRECANCEROUS CONDITIONS
Precancerous conditions are medical states where abnormal cells have the
potential to become cancerous over time but have not yet developed into
full-blown cancer. These conditions indicate a higher-than-average risk of
developing cancer, although not all precancerous conditions will lead to
cancer. Monitoring and sometimes treating these conditions can help
prevent the progression to cancer. Here are some examples of common
precancerous conditions:
1. Dysplasia: This refers to abnormal cell growth in tissues, often identified
in organs like the cervix (cervical dysplasia), colon, or skin. Dysplasia can
range from mild to severe, with more severe forms carrying a higher risk of
progressing to cancer.
2. Leukoplakia: A condition where thick white patches form on the
mucous membranes, often in the mouth or throat, commonly linked with
tobacco use. Leukoplakia can become cancerous, especially if dysplasia is
present.
3. Adenomatous Polyps: These are growths in the colon or rectum that
are not cancerous but have the potential to turn into colorectal cancer if
left untreated. Colonoscopy screenings often aim to detect and remove
these polyps early.
4. Barrett's Esophagus: A condition in which the lining of the esophagus
changes, often due to chronic acid reflux (GERD). Barrett’s esophagus
increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
5. Actinic Keratosis: Rough, scaly patches on the skin, usually caused by
sun exposure, that can potentially develop into squamous cell carcinoma,
a type of skin cancer.

PAGE 8
 AGENTS OF CANCER
Carcinogens:- External substances or environmental
factors that can cause cancer by damaging the DNA in cells
or by disrupting cellular processes, leading to uncontrolled
cell growth. Types of Carcinogens:
 Chemical Carcinogens: Such as tobacco smoke,
asbestos, benzene, and formaldehyde, which directly
damage DNA or affect cellular regulation.
 Physical Carcinogens: Like ionizing radiation (from X-
rays, radon gas) and UV radiation from the sun, which
cause DNA damage.
 Biological Carcinogens: Including certain viruses (e.g.,
HPV, Hepatitis B and C) and bacteria (e.g., H. pylori),
which may introduce viral genes.

PAGE 9
Oncogenes:- Mutated or overactive versions of normal
genes (called proto-oncogenes) that regulate cell growth,
division, and survival. When these genes become mutated or
dysregulated, they can drive cells to grow and divide
uncontrollably, leading to cancer.
Proto-Oncogenes: In a normal, healthy cell, proto-
oncogenes play a key role in cell growth and differentiation.
However, mutations (which may be caused by carcinogens,
radiation, or inherited genetic factors) can transform proto-
oncogenes into oncogenes.
Examples of Oncogenes:
 RAS: A family of genes that, when mutated, cause cells
to grow and divide excessively. RAS mutations are
common in cancers like pancreatic, colon, and lung
cancer.
 HER2: This gene encodes a protein involved in cell
growth and division. Overexpression of HER2 is seen in
some breast cancers.
MYC: This gene regulates cell division, and mutations
or amplification of MYC.

.
PAGE 10
 CAUSES OF CANCER
1. Genetic Factors: Inherited mutations and family
history of cancer increase risk.
2. Environmental Carcinogens: Exposure to
substances like tobacco smoke, asbestos, and benzene
can lead to cancer.
3. Radiation Exposure: UV rays (from the sun),
ionizing radiation (X-rays, radon), and nuclear
radiation can damage DNA and cause cancer.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, heavy alcohol use,
poor diet, obesity, and lack of physical activity are
linked to various cancers.
5. Infections: Viruses (HPV, Hepatitis B and C) and
bacteria (*H. pylori*) can increase cancer risk.
6. Hormones: Factors like hormone replacement
therapy and certain reproductive factors can affect
cancer risk.
7. Immune Suppression: Conditions or medications
that weaken the immune system elevate cancer risk.
8.Aging: Cancer risk increases with age due to
accumulated genetic mutations and prolonged
exposure to carcinogens.

PAGE 11
 TYPES OF CANCER
1. Breast Cancer:- Type of cancer that forms in the
cells of the breast, usually beginning in the ducts
(ductal carcinoma) or lobules (lobular
carcinoma).
Causes/Risk Factors
 Age,
 genetics (BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations)
 hormonal factors
 lifestyle (obesity, alcohol)
 family history
Symptoms
 Lump in the breast
 Changes in breast shape
 Skin dimpling
 Nipple discharge and pain
Treatment
Options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy,
hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.

PAGE 12
2.Prostate Cancer :- Type of cancer that occurs in
the prostate, a small gland that produces seminal
fluid in men. It is one of the most common cancers
among men.
Causes/Risk Factors
 Age (risk increases after 50)
 Family history of prostate cancer
 Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2)
 Ethnicity (higher rates in African American men)
 Obesity and diet (high-fat diets may contribute)
Symptoms
 Early stages often have no symptoms.
 Advanced cancer may cause difficulty urinating, blood
in urine or semen, pelvic pain, and erectile dysfunction.
Diagnosis
 Screening methods include the prostate-specific
antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE).
 Confirmatory diagnosis typically involves a biopsy.

Treatment
 Options depend on cancer stage and include active
surveillance, surgery (prostatectomy), radiation
therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.

PAGE 13
 2. Leukemia:- Type of cancer that affects the blood
and bone marrow, characterized by the uncontrolled
production of abnormal white blood cells. It can
interfere with the body's ability to produce normal
blood cells, leading to various health issues.
Causes/Risk Factors:
 Genetic predisposition (family history)
 Previous radiation exposure or chemotherapy
 Certain genetic disorders (e.g., Down syndrome)
 Exposure to chemicals (benzene, for example)
Symptoms:
 Fatigue and weakness
 Frequent infections
 Easy bruising or bleeding
 Weight loss
 Swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen
Diagnosis:
 Blood tests (complete blood count)
 Bone marrow biopsy
 Genetic testing to identify specific mutations

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, Targeted therapy, Radiation therapy, Stem
cell transplant for severe cases.

PAGE 14
 3. Ewings Sarcoma:- A rare and aggressive type of bone
cancer that primarily affects children and young
adults. It typically arises in the long bones, pelvis, or
soft tissues around the bones.
Causes/Risk Factors:
 Exact causes are unknown; genetic factors may play a
role.
 More common in males and typically diagnosed
between ages 10 and 20.
Symptoms:
 Pain and swelling in the affected area.
 Tenderness, especially around the bone.
 Fever and fatigue may also occur.

Diagnosis:
 Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) to identify
tumors.
 Biopsy to confirm the presence of Ewing's sarcoma
cells.
Treatment:
 A combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy,
and surgery to remove the tumor.
 Treatment plans are often tailored based on the
tumor’s location and stage.

PAGE 15
 4. Retinoblastoma (Eye Cancer):- A rare type of eye
cancer that primarily affects young children, typically
under the age of 5. It develops in the retina, the light-
sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
Causes/Risk Factors:
 Caused by genetic mutations, often inherited; may be
associated with a family history of the disease.
 The RB1 gene is commonly implicated in hereditary
cases.
Symptoms:
 A white reflection in the pupil (often described as "cat’s
eye" reflex).
 Crossed eyes (strabismus) or abnormal eye
movements.
 Red or swollen eyes.
 Vision problems.

Diagnosis:
 Eye examinations by an ophthalmologist.
 Imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to
assess tumor presence and extent.
Treatment:
 Options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy,
cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgery (enucleation in
severe cases).

PAGE 16
 DETECTION AND DIAGNOSIS
1.Screening Tests:
 Mammograms for breast cancer.
 Pap smears for cervical cancer.
 Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer.
 PSA tests for prostate cancer.
2. Physical Examination:
 Doctors check for lumps, changes in skin, and other
abnormalities.
3. Imaging Tests:
 X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound are used to visualize
internal structures and detect tumors.
4. Laboratory Tests:
 Blood tests can reveal tumor markers and other indicators of
cancer.
 Urine tests may also detect specific cancers.
5. Biopsy:
 Removal of tissue for microscopic examination is the
definitive method for diagnosing cancer. Types include fine-
needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, and excisional biopsy.
6. Genetic Testing:
 Identifies inherited mutations linked to specific cancers,
aiding in risk assessment and treatment planning.

PAGE 17
 TREATMENT OF CANCER
1. Surgery:
 To remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. It can be
curative or palliative (to relieve symptoms).
2. Radiation Therapy:
 Uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink
tumors.
3. Chemotherapy:
 Uses drugs to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Often
affects the whole body. Can be given intravenously or orally,
typically in cycles.
4. Hormone Therapy:
 Blocks or removes hormones that fuel certain cancers (e.g.,
breast and prostate cancers). Can involve medications or
surgical procedures (e.g., oophorectomy for women).
5. Immunotherapy:
 Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Includes checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and
vaccines.
6. Stem Cell Transplant:
 Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, often
after high-dose chemotherapy or radiation.

PAGE 18
 EXPERIMENT
OBJECTIVE:
Visit the Apollo Hospital in Bhubaneswar to learn more
about cancer by peaking with oncologists and interviewing
patients to learn about their opinions and experiences with
the illness.
MATERIALS REQUIRED:
A list of questions, consent forms, school identity card,
notebooks, pens, voice recorder and camera.
PROCEDURE:
1. Information regarding cancer was acquired during a visit
to the Apollo hospital located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
2. Firstly, we had a conversation with the oncology
division. The chief oncologists gave us an overview of the
illness.
3. We asked the doctors a series of questions based on our
list of questions, which is included in the observations.
4. Secondly, we were granted permission by the doctors to
speak to the cancer patients. We received assistance from
the nurses and medical staff to continue our experiment.
5. Conversations with the cancer patients revealed what
they thought and experienced regarding the illness, as well
as how it had affected their lives.

PAGE 19
6. Certain details of the patients were recorded along with
the type of cancer they had been diagnosed with.
7. Following all hospital policies and protecting patient
privacy when requesting information allowed the
experiment to be completed successfully.

OBSERVATIONS
(1) Questionnaire with the oncologists.
1)What are the risk factors and lifestyle choices that can
increase a person's likelihood of developing cancer?
Doctor: Risk factors include tobacco use, excessive alcohol
consumption, exposure to carcinogens mutations- (e.g..
UV radiation, asbestos), family history of cancer, and
certain genetic Lifestyle choices such as an unhealthy diet,
lack exercise, and obesity factors to reduce the likelihood of
cancer. a healthy lifestyle and avoid these risk factors to
reduce the likelihood of cancer.
2)How important is early detection in improving cancer
outcomes, and what are the various methods cancer
screening?
Doctor: Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Screening methods, like mammograms and colonoscopies,
aid in early diagnosis. These tests are crucial in identifying
cancer at more treatable stages.

PAGE 20
3) Can you discuss the role of genetics in cancer and how
genetic testing is used in both prevention and treatment?
Doctor: Genetics play a significant role. Genetic testing
identifies mutations and helps tailor treatments. It's also
vital for assessing cancer risk, enabling prevention
strategies.
4) What are the psychological and emotional challenges
faced by cancer patients, and what support systems are
available for them?
Doctor: Patients experience emotional distress, anxiety,
and depression. Support systems include counseling,
support groups, and palliative care to address
psychological challenges and improve overall well-being.
5) How does cancer research contribute to our
understanding of the disease and the development of new
treatments? What are some promising areas of research in
oncology?
Doctor: Research enhances our understanding of cancer's
molecular basis. It leads to innovative treatments like
immunotherapy and targeted therapies. Promising areas
include cancer immunogenomics and liquid biopsies.

PAGE 21
 (2) Patient Information
PATIENT NAME: SMARAJIT PATNAIK
AGE: 48 YEARS
GENDER: MALE
HEIGHT: 173 CM
WEIGHT: 75 KG
ETHNICITY: HINDU

DIAGNOSIS: INVASIVE ADENOCARCINOMA

DATE OF ADMISSION: 10 – 10 - 2017
STAGE: Stage II (2) adenocarcinoma
RISK FACTORS: Smoking and alcohol intake
TREATMENT: CHEMOTHERAPY
HISTOLOGIC REPORT:
SIDE EFFECTS: NONE

PAGE 22
CONCLUSION OF THE EXPERIMENT:
Complexity and Diversity: Cancer is a complex disease
with diverse forms, affecting individuals across various
demographics and regions.
Treatment Advancements: Treatment has evolved
significantly, including innovative therapies like
immunotherapy, but access disparities and research gaps
persist.
Collaboration is Key: Collaboration among experts,
policymakers, and communities, is vital for progress in
research and treatment.
Need for Holistic Action: Combating cancer requires
holistic approach, including prevention, early detection,
equal treatment access, and strong support systems.
Continued Education: Education about risk factors and
early detection remains pivotal in empowering individuals
and fostering a proactive approach toward cancer
awareness.

This experiment thus explores the complex world of cancer,

revealing its nuances and showcasing the evolving field of
research, healthcare, and patient experiences related to
this illness. Hence it's evident that cancer is not just merely
a medical challenge but a deeply personal journey for
individuals and families alike.

PAGE 23
MATERIAL EVIDENCE

PAGE 24
 CONCLUSION
This project has provided significant insights into
understanding, diagnosing, and treating cancer. Through
our research on [specific focus, e.g., genetic factors,
environmental influences, or a particular type of cancer], we
have identified critical patterns that can contribute to early
detection and more effective treatment approaches. These
findings reinforce the importance of precision medicine,
which tailors treatments to individual patients based on
their unique characteristics.
However, while these results are promising, they also
highlight the need for further research. Future studies
should expand to include larger and more diverse
populations, as well as explore new technologies and
therapeutic options to maximize patient outcomes.
Continued collaboration among researchers, healthcare
providers, and policymakers will be essential in overcoming
the challenges posed by cancer and advancing toward a
cure.
Ultimately, this project underscores the potential for
innovative research to make a tangible difference in the lives
of those affected by cancer, giving hope that with ongoing
advancements, we can improve survival rates and quality of
life for patients around the world.

PAGE 25
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

• www.who.int
• www.academia.edu
• www.slideshare.net
• www.healthline.com
• www.unicef.org.in
• www.wikipedia.org.in
• www.mayoclinic.org
• www.medicalnewstoday.com
• NCERT Books

PAGE 26