Overview of Cancer Characteristics and Treatment

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to the characteristics, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer, as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is one characteristic of cancer cells in terms of growth and division?

Cancer cells lose control over the speed of cell growth and division.

What is a tumor?

A mass of tissue caused by abnormal cell growth, or hyperplasia.

What differentiates benign tumors from malignant tumors?

Benign tumors grow slowly, are organized, and do not invade surrounding tissue, while malignant tumors grow rapidly and invade surrounding tissues.

What does metastasis refer to in cancer biology?

The spreading of cancer cells from the original site to other parts of the body.

What are the main features of malignant tumors?

Rapid rate of growth, invasion of surrounding tissues, and poor cell differentiation.

What is dysplasia?

Abnormal changes in the size, shape, and organization of tissue cells, which can be an early sign of cancer.

What role do proto-oncogenes play in normal cells?

Proto-oncogenes code for proteins that promote normal cell division.

What is the significance of the p53 gene?

p53 is a tumor suppressor gene that codes for a protein that stops cell division in stressed or damaged cells.

How can inherited mutations affect cancer risk?

Inherited mutations in germ cells can increase the likelihood of developing cancer if subsequent mutations occur.

What are some common environmental causes of cancer?

Viruses, carcinogens, radiation, and breakdowns in immunity can contribute to cancer development.

What are BRCA1 and BRCA2?

Tumor suppressor genes that indicate a predisposition to breast cancer.

What are the seven warning signs of cancer?

Change in bowel or bladder habits, a sore that does not heal, unusual bleeding, thickening or lump, indigestion, change in a wart, nagging cough.

What is chemotherapy?

A treatment method that uses drugs to kill cancer cells but can also damage healthy cells.

What lifestyle choices can help prevent cancer?

Avoiding tobacco smoke, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a low-fat diet with fruits and vegetables, moderating alcohol intake, and protecting skin from excessive sunlight.