Understanding Cancer
An overview on a disease known to kill about millions of
people yearly, and still has no precise cure.
Table of Contents
• What is Cancer?
• Types of Cancer
• Causes of Cancer
• Cancer Diagnosis and Treatments
• Prevention and Risk Reduction
• Conclusion
What is Cancer?
• Cancer is a disease that occurs when cells in the body begin to
grow uncontrollably and spread to other tissues.
• Unlike many other diseases which are just as lethal, Cancer is, in a
way, a dysfunction of one’s own body cells.
Cells cycles during cancer
1. Normal Cell Cycle:
• Cells grow, divide, and die in an orderly manner.
• Cell cycle checkpoints ensure proper cell division.
2. Cancer Cell Cycle:
• Cancer cells ignore checkpoints and divide uncontrollably.
• Mutations in genes that regulate the cell cycle contribute to cancer.
• Cancer cells can become immortal, leading to continuous growth.
3. Impact of Cell Cycle Disruption:
• Uncontrolled cell growth leads to tumor formation.
• Cancer cells can invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant sites.
What causes Cancer?
1. Genetic Factors:
• Inherited genetic mutations can increase cancer risk.
• Examples: BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations increase breast cancer risk.
2. Environmental Factors:
• Exposure to carcinogens like tobacco smoke, radiation, and certain
chemicals.
• Lifestyle factors like diet, physical activity, and alcohol consumption.
3. Viral and Bacterial Infections:
• Certain viruses and bacteria can contribute to cancer development.
• Examples: HPV (human papillomavirus) and H. Pylori (Helicobacter pylori).
Diagnosis
• Early Detection:
• Regular self-exams and screening tests.
• Importance of early detection in improving prognosis.
• Diagnostic Tests:
• Biopsy: Tissue sample examination under a microscope.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRI, PET scans.
• Blood tests: Tumor markers and genetic tests.
Treatments
• Surgery: Removal of cancerous tissue.
• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Use of high-energy rays to kill cancer
cells.
• Immunotherapy: Stimulating the body’s immune system to
fight cancer.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules
involved in cancer growth.
Lowering Your Cancer Risk
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
• Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole
grains. Limit processed foods and red meat.
• Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a
healthy weight.
• Smoking Cessation: Quit smoking to reduce lung cancer risk.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can increase
cancer risk.
• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun
exposure to reduce skin cancer risk.
• Regular Health Check-ups:
• Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor for early detection of
Conclusion
From understanding the fundamental biology of cancer to
exploring the latest advancements in treatment, we’ve
journeyed through a complex yet hopeful landscape.
Remember, early detection is key, healthy lifestyle choices are
powerful, and continuous research brings us closer to a future
where cancer is no longer a death sentence. Let’s embrace
hope, empower ourselves, and support those affected by this
disease. Together, we can make a difference.
THANK YOU
By Neelam Tayade