Introduction to cancer Flashcards
what is cancer?
uncontrolled cell growth of abnormal cells
what is the main difference between malignant and beign turmors?
metastasis when it spreads
how does cancer start?
due to mutations
what makes cancer cells different?
- uncontrolled growth
- evading growth suppressors
- resist cell death
- induce angiogenesis
- activating and invasion and metastasis
what is considered for the different stages of cancer?
TNM
- tumor size
- lymph nodes
- metastases
What are the different types of leukaemia?
- acute myeloid leukemia
- acute lymphocytic leukemia
- chronic myeloid leukaemia
- chronic lymohocytic leukaemia
What are some risk factors for cancer?
Genetic Ionising radiation Diet Smoking Age Chronic inflammation Immunosuppression Sunlight Obesity Hormones
Why is genetics a risk factor for cancer?
Cancer is a genetic disease
Mutation of DNA
Even within the same tumor can have different genetic changes due to inherited or acquired
How to prevent cancer?
Dont smoke or vape Moderate alcohol intake Healthy diet Physical activity Care in sunlight
How can cancer be diagnosed?
Genetic testing Family history Lab tests Biopsy Imaging Vaccines e.g. hpv Sentinel lymph node biopsy
What are some symptoms of cancer?
Unexplained weightloss Cough Fatigue Blood in stools Headaches
What are some treatment for cancer?
Surgery
Radiotherapy
Chemotherapy
IV transfusion
what may happen when drug resistance occurs?
when the drugs took into the cell the tumor can alter it by:
- inactivating the drug
- altering the drug target
- changes the response
- dysfunctional apoptosis
what are some cancer causing substances?
asbestos benzene radon coal tar wood dust coal emissions soot
