Characteristics, Treatments, and Risk Factors of Cancer

Vocabulary flashcards covering the biological characteristics of cancer cells, tumor types, treatment approaches, and risk-reducing factors discussed in the lecture.

Carcinogenesis

The process that leads to the development of cancer.

Telomere Extension

An enzymatic process in cancer cells that prevents telomere shortening, allowing them to remain immortal and continue dividing.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that normal damaged cells undergo, which cancer cells fail to carry out, resulting in uncontrolled survival and tumor formation.

Angiogenesis

The formation of new blood vessels, stimulated by cancer cells to supply them with oxygen and nutrients needed for continued growth.

Benign Tumor

A tumor that remains contained within a capsule or structure and is not likely to spread, though it can still cause harm by pressing on neighboring tissues.

Malignant Tumor

A cancerous tumor that is likely to spread or has already spread to create new tumors in other locations.

Metastasize

The ability of cancer cells to spread from their initial site and establish new tumors in other parts of the body.

Melanoma

A type of cancer that is typically malignant and prone to spreading to multiple locations throughout the body.

Chemotherapy

A cancer treatment using drugs that damage DNA or interfere with mitosis, traditionally targeting all rapidly dividing cells in the body.

Radiation Therapy

A cancer treatment that interferes with the ability of cancer cells to reproduce, typically by causing DNA damage or disrupting mitosis.

Hormone Therapy

A cancer treatment method that prevents cells from receiving signals that encourage growth and division.

Smoking

A behavioral risk factor that accounts for approximately $30\%$ of all cancer deaths.

Antioxidants (Vitamins A and C)

Nutrients that provide protection against DNA damage, helping to reduce the overall risk of cancer.