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Carcinogenesis

The process by which normal cells transform into cancerous cells via genetic mutations and changes in cell behavior.

Initiation

The first stage of tumor development where genetic mutations occur.

Promotion

The stage of tumor development where mutated cells proliferate due to growth-promoting stimuli.

Progression

The stage in tumor development where tumor cells acquire further mutations leading to malignant behavior.

Inflammation

The body's localized response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain.

Healing

The process of tissue repair that can occur through primary (direct) or secondary (granulation tissue) intention.

Neoplasm

An abnormal growth of tissue which can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite changes in external conditions.

Hypertension

A condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure.

Cataract

A progressive clouding of the lens of the eye leading to impaired vision, often related to aging.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

A progressive respiratory disease characterized by airflow obstruction, often due to smoking.

Diabetes Mellitus Type 1

An autoimmune condition resulting in the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

A condition characterized by insulin resistance and inadequate insulin secretion, often related to obesity.

Dysplasia

Abnormal growth or development of tissues, often considered a precursor to cancer.

Hypothyroidism

A condition resulting from insufficient production of thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue and weight gain.

Cushing's Syndrome

A hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Damage to the peripheral nerves, often resulting in symptoms such as numbness and pain.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

A condition affecting central vision, commonly associated with aging.

Osteoarthritis

A degenerative joint disease characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune disorder causing chronic inflammation of joints, leading to pain and mobility issues.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells from the original tumor to distant sites in the body.

Oncogene

A gene that has the potential to cause cancer when mutated or expressed at high levels.

Tumor Suppressor Gene

A gene that protects a cell from one step on the path to cancer; when mutated, it can lead to uncontrolled cell growth.

Chemotherapy

A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.

Radiation Therapy

A treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Biopsy

A medical procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue for examination, usually to diagnose cancer.

Immunotherapy

A cancer treatment that stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

Prognosis

A prediction of the likely outcome of a disease, including chances of recovery.

Palliative Care

A specialized area of healthcare that focuses on providing relief from symptoms and stress of a serious illness.

Carcinogen

Any substance or exposure that can lead to cancer.