Cancer Study Overview
1. What is Cancer?
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of
abnormal cells. Normally, cells grow, divide, and die in a regulated way. Cancer cells don’t
follow these rules — they keep multiplying and can invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts
of the body (metastasis).
2. Causes of Cancer
Cancer can be caused by a combination of factors:
Genetic mutations: Changes in DNA that disrupt normal cell function
Environmental exposures: Tobacco smoke, radiation, certain chemicals
Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, alcohol use
Infections: Some viruses (HPV, Hepatitis B and C) and bacteria (H. pylori) increase risk
Inherited mutations: Some people inherit genes that raise cancer risk (e.g., BRCA1/2 in
breast cancer)
3. Types of Cancer
There are over 100 types of cancer. Some common categories:
Carcinomas: Originate in skin or tissues lining organs (most common)
Sarcomas: Develop in bones, muscles, or connective tissue
Leukemias: Cancers of blood and bone marrow
Lymphomas: Cancer of the lymphatic system
Central Nervous System Cancers: Brain and spinal cord tumors
4. Cancer Diagnosis
Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRI, PET scans to locate tumors
Biopsy: Taking a tissue sample to examine cells under a microscope
Blood tests: Detect markers or abnormalities
Genetic tests: Identify mutations for targeted therapies
5. Treatment Options
Surgery: Removing tumors
Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells
Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill or slow the growth of cancer cells
Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific mutations or proteins in cancer cells
Hormone therapy: Used in cancers influenced by hormones (e.g., breast, prostate)
6. Current Research and Advances
Personalized medicine: Tailoring treatment based on individual genetic profiles
Early detection: Developing better screening tools (liquid biopsies, advanced imaging)
Immunotherapy breakthroughs: CAR-T cells, checkpoint inhibitors
Prevention strategies: Vaccines (like HPV), lifestyle interventions
Understanding tumor microenvironment: How cancers interact with surrounding cells
7. Prevention and Risk Reduction
Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol
Healthy diet and exercise
Vaccination (HPV, Hepatitis B)
Regular screenings for early detection
Protect skin from UV radiation
