2.7 Cell divison gone wrong Flashcards
What is the main cause of cancer?
Uncontrolled cell growth and division
Cancer cells ignore signals that tell them to stop dividing or to self-destruct. t ot f
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What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?
Benign tumors are non-cancerous and do not spread, while malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade other tissues or spread to different parts of the body.
How do mutations in DNA lead to cancer?
: Mutations can damage the genes that regulate cell division, causing cells to grow uncontrollably. This can lead to tumor formation and cancer if the mutated cells do not die or repair themselves.
A person is exposed to a high amount of UV radiation. Explain how this could increase their risk of developing cancer.
UV radiation can damage DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations. If these mutations affect genes controlling cell division, it could cause cancerous growth.
Why is early detection of cancer important?
Early detection allows for treatment before the cancer spreads, increasing the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Cancer cells can grow their own blood vessels to get nutrients.
True
How does smoking increase the risk of cancer?
Smoking introduces carcinogens like tar and chemicals into the body, which can damage DNA and lead to mutations that cause cancer.
Why might cancer treatments like chemotherapy also harm healthy cells?
Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, but it can’t differentiate between cancerous cells and normal cells that divide quickly, like those in hair follicles or the digestive lining.