CH.13 Cancer Epidemiology - Key Concepts

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to cancer epidemiology, including genetic and environmental factors influencing cancer risk.

Cancer

A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and division.

Epigenetics

The study of changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence.

Microenvironment

The immediate physical and biological environment surrounding a cell.

Carcinogenic

Substances that can lead to the development of cancer.

Genetic alterations

Changes in the DNA sequence that may lead to cancer.

Chronic inflammation

Prolonged inflammation that may promote cancer development.

Nutrigenomics

The study of how nutrients affect gene expression and how genetic variation affects dietary response.

BMI (Body Mass Index)

A measure of body fat based on height and weight.

Ionizing radiation

Radiation with enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, which may lead to cancer.

Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS)

Smoke from burning tobacco products that poses health risks to non-smokers.

Xenobiotic chemicals

Chemical substances that are foreign to a biological system.

Secondhand smoke

Tobacco smoke that is inhaled involuntarily by non-smokers from smoking products.

Adipokines

Cell signaling proteins secreted by adipose tissue, influencing metabolic processes.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death that is often disrupted in cancer cells.

Physical activity

Any movement that is carried out by the skeletal muscles and requires energy, potentially reducing cancer risk.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

A virus linked to the development of cervical and other cancers.

Oxidative stress

An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, contributing to cancer progression.

Cytokines

Proteins that modulate immune responses, often involved in inflammation and cancer.

Angiogenesis

The formation of new blood vessels, which tumors use to supply themselves with nutrients.

Dietary factors

Nutrients and food items that can influence the risk of cancer.

Occupational carcinogens

Substances present in the workplace that may increase cancer risk.

Melanoma

A serious form of skin cancer associated with excessive sun exposure.

Stroma

The supportive tissue surrounding a tumor, influencing its growth and progression.