Cancer Overview and Prevention

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to cancer, its epidemiology, prevention strategies, and the role of genetics and nutrition.

Cancer

Uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation.

Epidemiology of Cancer

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the US.

Benign tumor

Non-cancerous, encapsulated, slow growing, non-invasive tumor.

Malignant tumor

Cancerous, fast-growing, non-capsulated tumor that can metastasize.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body.

Oncogenes

Mutated genes that increase cell division and promote tumor growth.

Tumor-suppressor genes

Genes that regulate cell division and promote apoptosis to prevent cancer.

Initiation of cancer

The first step where a cell's DNA is mutated, increasing the likelihood of division.

Promotion

The process where promoters enhance the growth of mutated cells.

Cancer statistics (2020)

Estimated 1,806,950 new cases and 606,520 deaths in the US.

Risk factors for cancer

Smoking (25-30%), diet (30-35%), obesity (10-20%), genetics (5-10%).

Nutritional genomics

The relationship between nutrients, diet, and gene expression.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)

Variations in the genome where individuals differ.

Phytochemicals

Natural plant chemicals beneficial for health; includes flavonoids, carotenoids, etc.

Catechins

Phytochemicals that reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Curcumin

A phytochemical with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Recommendations for cancer prevention

Maintain healthy weight, be active, eat a variety of foods, and limit alcohol.

Alcohol consumption and cancer

Limit to 2 drinks for men and 1 drink for women per day.

Role of epigenetics in cancer

Study of how environmental factors affect gene expression without altering DNA.

Folate and MTHFR gene

MTHFR is essential for DNA production and amino acid metabolism.

Nutritional genomics example

How dietary components affect gene activity.

Carcinogens

Substances that can lead to cancer.

Dramatic rise in cancer in people under 50

Increased incidence of many cancers among younger populations.

Screening/risk factors

Processes to detect cancer early and identify risk factors.

Obesity and cancer

Contributes up to 10-20% of cancer cases.

Statistical significance of cancer

1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in life.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Health benefits of certain phytochemicals that reduce inflammation.

Homocysteine

An amino acid linked to cardiovascular risk, affected by MTHFR activity.

APOE gene

Gene that plays a role in lipid transport and has context-dependent effects on health.

Guidelines for sugary drinks

Avoid sugary beverages and limit energy-dense foods.

Symptoms of cancer

Signs that may indicate the presence of cancer; often varied.

Tumor progression

Development of a tumor as mutated cells acquire additional mutations.

Cell division control mechanisms

Normal cells employ various methods to prevent unregulated division.

Saponins

Phytochemicals that exhibit anti-carcinogenic properties.

Phenolic compounds

A large family of compounds with health benefits, including flavonoids.

Immunoactive substances

Compounds that can enhance immune function.

Psycho-oncology

Study of psychological, social, emotional, and spiritual aspects of cancer.