B2 - Cancer

What is mitosis?

A type of cell division where one cell divides into two identical cells

Why is mitosis important in the body?

It allows growth, repair, and replacement of cells

How is mitosis normally controlled?

Genes in the nucleus tell cells when to divide and when to stop

What happens if the control of mitosis is lost?

Cells may divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor

What is a tumor?

A mass of abnormal cells caused by uncontrolled cell division

What are the two main types of tumors?

Benign and malignant

What is a benign tumor?

A growth of abnormal cells contained in one area, usually within a membrane

Do benign tumors spread to other parts of the body?

No, they stay in one place

Are benign tumors cancerous?

No, they are not considered cancer

What is a malignant tumor?

A tumor made of cancer cells that invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body

How do malignant tumors spread around the body?

Through the bloodstream

What is the term for new tumors formed by malignant cells in other parts of the body?

Secondary tumors

Are malignant tumors cancerous?

Yes

What is cancer?

A disease caused by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells (malignant tumors)

How do cancer cells damage the body?

They invade tissues and form secondary tumors that disrupt organ function

What are the three main types of cancer risk factors?

Genetic, lifestyle, and environmental

What does "genetic risk factor" mean?

An inherited tendency to develop certain types of cancer

What are examples of genetic cancers?

Breast cancer, prostate cancer, and cancer of the large intestine

What does "lifestyle risk factor" mean?

A behavior or habit that increases the risk of cancer

What cancer is linked to smoking?

Lung cancer

What cancer is linked to sun exposure/UV light?

Skin cancer

What cancers are linked to alcohol consumption?

Mouth cancer and throat cancer

What is an environmental risk factor for cancer?

A substance or condition in the environment that increases cancer risk

What is radon gas?

A radioactive gas found in some areas that increases lung cancer risk

How does radon cause cancer?

It releases ionising radiation that damages DNA in cells

How does damaged DNA lead to cancer?

It can cause cells to divide uncontrollably

What is ionising radiation?

Radiation that carries enough energy to damage DNA in cells

What is a secondary tumor?

A new tumor that forms in a different part of the body due to spreading malignant cells

How can you reduce your risk of skin cancer?

Limit sun exposure and use sunscreen

How can you reduce your risk of lung cancer?

Avoid smoking and exposure to radon gas

Can all cancers be prevented?

No, but some risks can be reduced through lifestyle changes

What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?

Benign tumors stay in one place; malignant tumors invade tissues and spread

What is the danger of malignant tumors?

They are cancerous and can spread to form secondary tumors

Why do malignant tumors often require urgent treatment?

They grow and spread rapidly, damaging organs

Is cancer caused only by lifestyle choices?

No, it can also be caused by genetic and environmental factors

What happens to cells in a malignant tumor?

They divide uncontrollably and can travel through the bloodstream

What is the role of genes in cancer?

Mutations in genes can lead to uncontrolled cell division

What is a mutation?

A change in the DNA that can affect how a cell functions

Why do scientists study cancer risk factors?

To help prevent cancer and develop treatments