Chapter 8 - Cancer Flashcards
What is the leading cause of death in Canada?
Lung cancer
What proportion of deaths in Canada is attributed to cancer?
Cancer is responsible for one in four deaths in Canada.
How many Canadians are diagnosed with cancer each week?
Approximately 4400 Canadians are diagnosed with cancer each week.
What is the overall survival rate for cancer in Canada?
The survival rate for cancer in Canada is about 64%
What percentage of men and women are projected to develop some form of cancer in their lifetime?
44% of men and 43% of women are projected to develop some form of cancer in their lifetime.
According to estimates, how many Canadians are expected to develop cancer at some point?
It is estimated that two in five Canadians will develop cancer at some point.
How does early detection impact cancer outcomes?
Suggests a better chance of remission or recovery.
How does the risk of cancer change with age? What does this highlight?
Cancer risk increases with age, highlighting the importance of age-specific screenings.
What factors contribute to an increased risk of cancer?
Weight and overall inflammation in the body can increase the risk of cancer.
What does immunotherapy aim to leverage in combating cancer?
Immunotherapy aims to leverage the body’s immune system to combat cancer. It offers less invasive and more effective treatments.
What is cancer characterized by?
Cancer is characterized by abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth, forming tumors.
How does cancer start at the cell level?
It begins with a cell behaving strangely and multiplying when it shouldn’t. This can lead to the formation of a mass of tissue called a tumor.
What challenges come with uncontrolled cell growth in cancer?
They can invade nearby tissues or travel through the blood or lymphatic system, making it hard to contain them.
What is a tumor, and how is it checked?
A tumor is a mass of tissue that serves no useful purpose. Doctors check it through a biopsy to see if it’s harmless (benign) or harmful (malignant).
What are benign vs. malignant tumors?
Benign tumors are usually not a big problem unless they disrupt normal functions, while malignant tumors can invade nearby tissues and even enter the bloodstream.
What happens if one cancerous cell remains in the body, even after most of the cancer has been removed?
It can keep multiplying.
Chemotherapy may be needed when surgery isn’t enough.
malignant tumors
Can Invade nearby tissues, blood vessels, and even nerves. They can become dangerous once they enter the bloodstream.
benign tumors
Enclosed in a protective membrane, they usually don’t cause much trouble unless they interfere with normal functions.
What is leukemia, and how does it affect the body?
A type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It makes the body produce too many abnormal white blood cells, which can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight infections.
What are white blood cells?
Known as leukocytes, they are a crucial part of the body’s immune system. They play a key role in defending the body against infections and foreign substances.
Leukemia is when the body produces abnormal white blood cells (weakens the immune system).
What is a genetically altered cell, and what does it do?
A genetically altered cell has a genetic mutation that makes it more likely to divide when it should rest.
What is hyperplasia?
Hyperplasia is when there is an increase in the number of cells in a tissue or organ beyond what is considered normal.
What is dysplasia, and why is it significant in terms of cancer?
Dysplasia is abnormal cell growth with size, shape, and organization changes, indicating disrupted cellular maturation. It’s often considered precancerous as it can precede cancer development in specific tissues.
What is in situ cancer, and what does the term “in situ” mean?
In situ cancer involves abnormal cells confined to their original site, not invading nearby tissues. “In situ” means “in place.”
Also known as carcinoma in situ (CIS), it’s a pre-cancerous condition that hasn’t penetrated the basement membrane.
What is invasive cancer?
Invasive cancer has spread beyond its original site, infiltrating surrounding tissues or organs.
How does a tumor develop?
It starts with a single cell undergoing a genetic mutation.
What happens during Abnormal Growth Signals in cancer development?
The mutated cell sends incorrect signals, leading to uncontrolled growth.
How do DNA changes play a role in cancer development, and what induces mutations?
External factors like smoking or radiation can alter DNA, disrupting normal processes. Mutated DNA causes uncontrolled growth and tumor formation.
What is the significance of DNA and RNA in the connection to cancer?
Cancer begins with DNA mutations, leading to abnormal signals, uncontrolled growth, and tumor formation. RNA transfers genetic instructions in healthy cells.
What happens during the Loss of Control phase in cancer development?
The cell loses standard mechanisms, contributing to uncontrolled growth. Healthy molecules may be eradicated or mutated, increasing the risk of cancerous growth.
What marks the Tumor Formation stage in cancer development?
Cells accumulate, forming a lump or tumor. Early detection is crucial at this stage.
What is Metastasis?
Cancer cells spread through the bloodstream.
What are the challenges in treating the spread of cancer?
Treating spread cancer is challenging, often requiring therapies like chemotherapy or radiation.
Pancreatic cancer, in particular, has a lower survival rate.
How does Hyperplasia contribute to cancer development?
Cancer cells show uncontrolled growth and spread because of increased cell numbers.
Hyperplasia: increased cell numbers
What is metastasis in cancer?
The spread of cancer cells from a primary tumor to other parts of the body.
How does metastasis occur?
Cancer cells from a primary tumor can spread to various organs, leading to symptoms like bleeding.
What symptoms may arise as the cell or tumor grows?
Issues like impeding blood flow or internal bleeding.
What is the challenge once cancer cells enter the bloodstream?
To control the spread of the cancerous cells.
What is cancer staging, and why are lymph nodes important?
Staging determines the extent and severity of cancer spread. Lymph nodes are vital in this process as cancer cells can travel there, impacting the probability of a cure.
What are Stages 0 or 1 in cancer?
Almost 100% survival rate; regular check-ups are vital for early detection and prevention. Emphasis on routine physicals decreases after diagnosis.
What defines Stages 2 & 3 in cancer?
Cancer is advanced, potentially invading nearby tissues. Treatment involves combination therapies to eliminate or shrink the tumor.
What characterizes Stage 4 in cancer?
Metastatic cancer spreads throughout the body. Treatment focuses on symptom management and quality of life. Achieving remission is extremely rare, with luck possibly playing a role.
What is the “behavior” of a malignant tumor?
Tumors display distinct behaviors based on the tissue they originate from; for instance, a malignant breast tumor’s growth and potential spread are unique to breast tissue characteristics.
What does tissue-specific mean regarding malignant tumors?
A tumor’s behavior depends on the organ or tissue it originates from.
What are the classifications of malignant tumors? (based on cell types)
C.S.L.L
Carcinoma, Sarcoma, Lymphoma, leukemia
What is carcinoma? (3 points: where it arises, commonality, where it occurs/location)
Arises in the epithelium (cells covering body surfaces or lining internal organs). Carcinoma is the most common form of cancer. It can occur in various organs like the skin, breast, uterus, prostate, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract.
What is Sarcoma? (3 points: arising, tissues, commonality)
a type of cancer that starts in the supporting or connective tissues of the body. These tissues include bones, muscles, and blood vessels. Sarcoma is relatively rare compared to other types of cancer.
What type of cancer is considered the most debilitating and painful and can result in amputations?
Sarcoma.
What type of cancer can also originate in blood-forming tissues (bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen)?
Primarily located in forms of connective tiussues. (bones, muscles…)
Sarcoma.
What is Lymphoma? (Hint: highly involved in the immune system)
Arises in cells of the lymph system (lymph nodes). It attacks the body’s ability to fight infection.
What is leukemia?
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It occurs when the body produces too many abnormal white blood cells, which are crucial to the immune system.
What are the major contributors to cancer risk?
Inactivity and obesity
What are inactivity and obesity linked to, and how is this directly correlated to cancer?
linked to chronic inflammation and hormonal changes, fostering cancer development.
What are self-inflicted risk factors rooted in?
Lifestyle choices.
What can be modified through exercise and weight management?
Self-inflicted risk factors associated with lifestyle choices.
What role do carcinogens in the environment play in the rising incidence of cancer?
Carcinogens in the environment are a leading cause of the increased rate of cancer.
What is the role of chemical additives in food products in cancer risk?
Some additives and contaminants in food products are identified as potential carcinogens, and certain food processing methods may introduce substances with cancer-causing potential.
How does exposure to ionizing radiation contribute to the risk of cancer?
Exposure to ionizing radiation from sources like X-rays and certain environmental elements is a known carcinogenic factor.
What can be a consequence to prolonged exposure to UV radiation?
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation, primarily from the sun, increases the risk of skin cancer.
In what way can ingesting certain chemicals contribute to cancer risk?
Certain chemicals found in food, water, or consumer products may contribute to cancer risk. This includes pesticides, preservatives, and other ingested substances.
How can environmental and industrial pollution impact cancer risk?
Air and water pollution, often stemming from industrial activities, can release contaminants into the environment, contributing to carcinogenic risks. Occupational exposures in certain industries may also elevate risks for workers.
What is the basic structure of DNA in our cells?
DNA consists of two long strands wound around each other in a spiral structure.
How many pairs of chromosomes are there in the nucleus of each cell?
There are 23 pairs of chromosomes in the nucleus of each cell.
What role do chromosomes play in our DNA?
Chromosomes, with one pair determining our sex and the other 22 making up the rest of our genetic information.
what are mutagens and what do they affect?
environmental factors that can cause mutation. Mutagens affect genes which can influence how cells behave
what are oncogenes?
normal genes which have been turned cancerous.
what dietary ingrediant can introduce mutations during DNA replication?
Refined sugar.
When does a genetic predisposition occur?
When parents carry mutations in their DNA.
When can genetic mutations occur?
during fetal development.
What are mutated oncogenes, and how can they be inherited in the context of cancer, such as breast cancer?
altered versions of normal genes called oncogenes. They play a crucial role in regulating cell growth and division. Inherited mutations in these genes can promote the development of cancer, like breast cancer.
When do mutational damages to oncogenes typically occur in most cases?
In most cases, mutational damage to oncogenes occurs after birth.
What factors can cause mutations in oncogenes, leading to hereditary cancer risks?
exposure to carcinogens, genetic predisposition, or random errors during DNA replication.
How can testing and identifying hereditary cancer risks be helpful for some individuals?
Testing and identifying hereditary cancer risks can be helpful for some people in understanding and managing their risk factors for certain types of cancer.
what is a cancer promoter?
things that accelerate the growth of cells which may lead to errors.
Ex: tobacco
what are Cancer initiators?
Carcinogenic agents, such as tobacco smoke are cancer initiators.
What percent of lung cancers is smoking responsible for? and what percent is smoking responsible for all cancer deaths?
Smoking is responsible for 85% of lung cancers and for about 30% all cancer deaths.
what can occur naturally in the environment?
carcinogens.
what are some ways that environmental changes may alter exposure to carcinogens?
air quality, water contamination, availability of nutrient rich foods, climate change.
what is a carcinogen in simple terms?
something that can cause cancer. Carcinogens are substances or agents that have the potential to lead to the development of cancer in living tissues.
what can high levels or ionizing radiation cause (Hint: nuclear incidents)
known to increase cancer
what percent of microbes cause cancer?
15-20%
why would an individual opt for preserved or processed alternatives? Why is this dangerous?
longer shelf life.
Some processed foods may contain additives or preservatives that, when consumed excessively, could contribute to health issues, including an increased risk of certain cancers. A diet based on processed foods may lack the protective elements found in fresh, whole foods.
what are environmental and industrial air pollutants?
harmful substances released into the air because of human activities, industrial processes, and natural sources
what is radiation? what type of radiation is known to be carcinogenic?
the emission of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles. Not all radiation is harmful, but ionizing radiation, which has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, is known to be carcinogenic.
what increases with age?
The risk of cancer.
what factors can increase the risk of cancer as you age?
Hormonal changes (fluctuations during menopause)
Diet (long term dietary habits)
what does the phrase “cancer is multifactorial” mean?
involves a complex interplay if genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors.
What percentage of all new cancer diagnoses is attributed to Lung Cancer?
14%.
What is the most common cause of cancer death in Canada, and how many deaths per week does it account for?
Lung Cancer; 388 deaths per week.
Is lung cancer the leading cause of cancer death in women, and what is the relationship with breast cancer?
Yes, lung cancer has the highest mortality rate in women, even though breast cancer is more common.
What is the greatest risk factor for lung cancer, and how can it be reduced?
Smoking; reducing smoking is crucial.
What are some other risk factors for lung cancer besides smoking?
Exposure to carcinogens, pollutants, and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).
When do symptoms of lung cancer typically appear, and what are some of these symptoms?
Symptoms often do not appear until an invasive stage. Persistent cough, chest pain, and recurring bronchitis may be indicative.
What are the common treatments for lung cancer, and is remission possible?
Radiation and chemotherapy are common treatments, and remission may be possible.
Colon and Rectal Cancer in terms of prevalence in Canada?
It is the third most common cancer in Canada.
How effective can treatment for rectal cancer be, and what signals should individuals pay attention to?
Treatment can be effective, especially with attention to the body’s signals. The presence of blood in urine or stool can be an indicator of potential issues in the colon.
What significant role do lifestyle and diet play in the development and prevention of colon and rectal cancer?
Low fiber intake can increase the rate of bacteria in the colon
What risk factors are associated with colon and rectal cancer?
Age, heredity, polyps, chronic bowel inflammation, type 2 diabetes, excessive alcohol and tobacco use, and a diet rich in red processed meats.
How is colon and rectal cancer detected, and what screening methods are recommended?
Regular screening at age 50, including a stool blood test and colonoscopy. Colonoscopy involves a camera in the body and is a somewhat non-invasive procedure.
What is the significance of probiotics in colon health, and how are they introduced?
Probiotics and prebiotics enhance the normal bacterial environment in the gut. These supplements support the normal bacteria in engulfing harmful bacteria, contributing to overall gut health.
What treatments are commonly used in combination with colon and rectal cancer?
Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are common treatments, often used in combination or individually based on the stage and type of cancer.
What is the prevalence of breast cancer in women and men in Canada?
It is the most common cancer in women, and it’s rare in men. In Canada, 1 in 9 women will develop breast cancer, and 1 in 29 will die from the disease.
How is breast cancer detected early, and what role does mammography play?
The number one way to assess breast cancer is through mammography, a low-dose x-ray that checks for early signs of breast cancer. It helps detect abnormal shadows in breast tissue. Self-examination and clinical breast exams are also helpful for early detection.
How does estrogen play a role in breast cancer risk, and what are its effects on the body?
Estrogen, considered anabolic, supports bone health and cellular functions. Changes in estrogen levels due to factors like menopause or hormone replacement therapy can impact breast cancer risk.
What proactive measures are recommended for breast cancer detection?
Regular imaging, including mammography, is a proactive measure to identify potential issues early. Medical professionals often advise continued monitoring if they detect any growth.
What are common signs that individuals should be aware of for potential breast cancer?
A lumpy or red appearance in the breast may be a sign of abnormal growth.
What imaging techniques are used for breast cancer treatment?
Ultrasonography or ultrasound
What are the surgical options for treating breast cancer?
Surgery options range from a lumpectomy (removing the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue) to a mastectomy (removing the entire breast).
What new strategies are emerging for breast cancer treatment and prevention?
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) are used to block the effects of estrogen in some parts of the body.
What is the prostate, and where is it located in men’s bodies?
The prostate gland is located at the base of the bladder in men and surrounds the urethra.
What role does the prostate play in male biology?
The prostate provides important fluids
What issues can an enlarged prostate cause?
can block the flow of urine, causing symptoms like feeling the need to pee but being unable to.
When does screening for prostate cancer typically start?
Screening for prostate cancer typically starts around the age of 50 due to the high success rate in managing the condition.
What are some risk factors for prostate cancer?
Age is the number one risk factor, along with physical inactivity, inherited genetic predisposition, diets high in calories and certain foods, obesity, inactivity, history of sexually transmitted diseases, and type 2 diabetes.
What are the common methods of detecting prostate cancer?
Detection methods include a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.
What is a prostatectomy?
a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland.
What are the key points about uterine or endometrial cancer?
It most often occurs after the age of 55, during or post-menopause. Prolonged exposure to estrogen increases the risk, but the use of oral contraceptives can provide protection. Pelvic exams can help detect it.
Why is skin cancer considered prevalent?
most common cancer, especially when highly curable forms are included in the count. Early detection is crucial for successful outcomes.
What are the risk factors for skin cancer?
excessive exposure to UV radiation, severe sunburns in childhood, many moles, high-altitude exposure, family history, and exposure to certain substances.
what are the two main types of skin cancer?
Basal Cell Carcinoma (90% of cases, rarely spreads) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (can metastasize).
What is melanoma, and why is early detection important?
Melanoma is a malignant skin tumor arising from pigmented cells, often originating in a mole. Early detection through regular skin checks is crucial for effective management.
Out of 81,700 skin cancer cases, approximately ____ are melanoma.
6,000
What does the pancreas do?
The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and insulin, crucial for digestion and insulin production.
Why is pancreatic cancer challenging to detect early?
Pancreatic cancer is often advanced when diagnosed, making early detection challenging.
Is stomach cancer common?
Stomach cancer is relatively rare.
Who is more likely to develop stomach cancer?
It occurs more frequently after the age of 50, with a higher incidence in men.
What is a significant risk factor for bladder cancer?
Smoking is a significant risk factor.
Is there a widely accepted screening test for bladder cancer?
No widely accepted screening test for early detection exists.
What are some risk factors for kidney cancer?
Smoking, obesity, and family history are associated with an increased risk.
Why does brain cancer often develop?
Brain cancer often develops with no apparent reason.
What is the typical survival time post-diagnosis?
Typically ranges from one to eight years.
Are there known specific risk factors for leukemia?
No known specific risk factors are identified.
Where does lymphoma arise from?
arises from lymph cells in the lymphatic system.
What are the types of lymphoma?
Hodgkin’s Disease primarily affects the upper body, while Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma primarily affects the lower body.
What type of cells are involved in multiple myeloma?
Malignant plasma cells are involved.
What is unique about multiple myeloma?
It is a cancer of the plasma cells, representing a unique type of blood cancer.
What is the primary and often curative treatment method for most cancers?
Surgery is the primary and often curative treatment method for most cancers.
For which cancers is surgery particularly effective?
Breast, prostate, lung, and colon.
In advanced cases, what treatments may complement or substitute surgery?
In advanced cases, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may complement or substitute surgery.
When is surgery less effective?
Surgery is less effective if the cancer has metastasized, meaning it has spread to other parts of the body through the blood.
What is chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs designed to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
How does chemotherapy work?
Interferes with DNA synthesis and replication, targeting rapidly dividing cells characteristic of cancer.
In cases where cancer cannot be eradicated, what is the role of chemotherapy?
In such cases, chemotherapy may be employed for symptom relief and to slow the disease’s progression, which is referred to as palliative chemotherapy.
How does beam therapy work in radiation?
A beam of X-ray or gamma radiation is directed at the tumor to destroy cancer cells with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissues.
What is internal radiation (brachytherapy)?
Internal radiation involves placing radioactive seeds inside the cancerous organ for a more localized and internal application of radiation.
How is radiation therapy used in combination with other treatments?
Radiation therapy may be used as an exclusive treatment method or in combination with chemotherapy or surgery, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
What does remission signify in cancer treatment?
The disease is under control, with signs and symptoms of cancer typically disappearing.
How long can remission last, and what is necessary for monitoring?
Remission may last for a variable period, and regular medical monitoring is necessary to assess its persistence.
Do patients go into remission independently, and what role do medical interventions play?
Patients typically do not go into remission independently; medical interventions play a crucial role.
