Introduction to
Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth and
spread of abnormal cells in the body. It can develop in almost any organ or
tissue and has the potential to severely impact a person's health and well-
being.
What is Cancer?
Uncontrolled Cell Invasive and Metastatic
Growth
Cancer is caused by genetic Cancer cells can invade nearby
changes that allow cells to grow tissues and spread to other
and divide uncontrollably, parts of the body through the
forming a mass of abnormal bloodstream or lymphatic
cells called a tumor. system, a process known as
metastasis.
Diverse Types
There are many different types of cancer, each with its own
characteristics and treatment approaches, depending on the origin and
behavior of the cancer cells.
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Types of Cancer
Carcinomas Sarcomas Leukemias and Lymphomas
These cancers originate in the epithelial Sarcomas develop in the supportive These cancers affect the blood, bone
cells that line the internal and external and connective tissues of the body, marrow, and lymphatic system, which
surfaces of the body, such as the skin, such as bone, muscle, cartilage, and are responsible for the body's immune
lungs, and breast. blood vessels. functions.
Causes of Cancer
1 Genetic Mutations 2 Environmental Factors
Alterations in genes that regulate cell growth and division can Exposure to carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke, radiation,
lead to the development of cancer. and certain chemicals, can increase the risk of developing
cancer.
3 Lifestyle Choices 4 Weakened Immune System
Factors like poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive Conditions that impair the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS
alcohol consumption can contribute to an increased cancer or certain medications, can make individuals more
risk. susceptible to cancer.
Mode of Transmission
Contact
Cancer is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through casual contact, such as
hugging or touching.
Body Fluids
Some types of cancer, like certain blood cancers, may be transmitted through the
exchange of bodily fluids, but this is rare.
Genetics
Inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, but
cancer is not directly inherited.
Incubation Period
Initial Genetic Changes
Cancer often begins with a single genetic mutation that allows
a cell to grow and divide uncontrollably.
Tumor Formation
As the mutated cells continue to proliferate, they form a mass
of abnormal cells known as a tumor.
Metastasis
Over time, the tumor can grow and spread to other parts of the
body, a process called metastasis.
Symptoms of Cancer
1 Early Symptoms
In the early stages, cancer may not have any noticeable
symptoms, making it important to undergo regular check-ups and
screenings.
2 Advanced Symptoms
As the cancer progresses, common symptoms can include
unexplained weight loss, fatigue, pain, and changes in bowel or
bladder habits.
3 Organ-Specific Symptoms
The specific symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type
and location of the tumor, such as a lump in the breast or
difficulty swallowing.
Diagnostic Tests and Early Detection
Imaging Tests Biopsy Screening Tests
Techniques like X-rays, CT scans, MRI, A small sample of tissue is taken from Regular cancer screenings, such as
and PET scans can help detect and the suspected tumor and examined mammograms, colonoscopies, and
locate tumors in the body. under a microscope to confirm the PSA tests, can help detect cancer early,
diagnosis. when it is often more treatable.
Treatment and Curative
Approaches
Surgery Chemotherapy
Removing the tumor or affected Drugs that target and destroy
tissue is often the first line of rapidly dividing cancer cells are
defense against certain types of used to kill or slow the growth of
cancer. tumors.
Radiation Therapy Targeted Therapies
High-energy radiation is used to Medications that target specific
damage the DNA of cancer cells, genetic mutations or pathways in
causing them to die or stop cancer cells are being developed
growing. to improve treatment outcomes.
Cancer Prevention
1 Healthy Lifestyle 2 Regular Screenings
Maintaining a balanced diet,
regular exercise, and avoiding Participating in recommended
tobacco and excessive cancer screening programs
alcohol can reduce the risk of can help detect the disease
developing cancer. early, when it is often more
treatable.
3 Vaccination 4 Environmental
Vaccines for certain viruses,
Protection
such as the HPV vaccine, can Reducing exposure to known
help prevent the development carcinogens, such as
of specific types of cancer. asbestos and radiation, can
lower the risk of certain
cancers.
