What is Cancer?

By
Marjorie Tanedo
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malignant tumor

What is Cancer?

Causes, Types, Symptoms & Treatment

Cancer is a life-threatening disease caused by the uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells in the body. Normally, cell division is tightly regulated according to the body’s needs. However, in cancer, this regulation breaks down. As a result, certain cells begin to divide abnormally and infinitely, leading to the formation of a tumor.

Definition of Cancer

Cancer is defined as:

“Any malignant tumor resulting from abnormal and uncontrolled mitosis (cell division) is known as cancer.”

Cancer is classified as a mitotic disorder (not meiotic) and often leads to serious health issues due to its invasive nature.

Types of Tumors

1. Benign Tumor

  • Localized, small, and stable

  • Non-cancerous and usually harmless

  • Do not spread to other parts of the body

  • Often removed via surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy if needed

2. Malignant Tumor (Cancerous Tumor)

  • Delocalized and aggressive

  • Capable of spreading (metastasis) to other parts of the body

  • Invade surrounding tissues

  • Considered truly cancerous and require immediate treatment

Key Differences Between Cancerous and Normal Cells

Feature Normal Cells Cancerous Cells
Growth Regulated Uncontrolled & Rapid
Structure Balanced Nucleus: Cytoplasm Ratio High Nucleus: Cytoplasm Ratio
Nucleoli Normal Prominent
Behavior Obeys signals Ignores body signals

Cancerous cells multiply rapidly and differ significantly in structure and behavior from healthy cells.

Common Symptoms of Cancer

Early detection of cancer is vital. Watch for the following early warning signs:

  • Sudden weight loss or gain

  • Night-time fevers

  • Formation of lumps or tissue thickening

  • Unexplained bleeding or bruising

  • Loss of appetite

  • Changes in urination or bowel habits

  • Chronic cough, fatigue, or persistent body aches

  • Changes in moles or hair loss

🔍 Pro Tip: Imaging tests (like CT scan, MRI, PET scan) help confirm the presence of cancer. Always consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

Causes of Cancer

🔬 Intrinsic Factors

  • Genetic mutations in somatic cells

  • Errors during mitosis

  • Mutations in DNA or oncogenes

☢️ Extrinsic (Environmental) Factors

  • Exposure to physical, chemical, or biological carcinogens

  • Smoking, alcohol use, and poor diet

  • Obesity and lack of physical activity

Major Types of Cancer

Type Origin Affects
Leukemia White Blood Cells (WBCs) Bone marrow and blood
Sarcoma Connective/supportive tissue Bones, cartilage, muscles, fat, blood vessels
Lymphoma Lymphocytes Immune & lymphatic systems
Carcinoma Epithelial cells Skin, lungs, liver, breast, prostate, brain, pancreas
Melanoma Melanocytes Skin

How is Cancer Treated?

Cancer treatment depends on its type, location, and stage. Common treatment options for cancer include:

  • 🧬 Gene Therapy – Targets faulty genes in cancer cells

  • 💊 Chemotherapy – Destroys rapidly dividing cells

  • ☢️ Radiation Therapy – Uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumors

  • 🩺 Surgical Removal – Extracts tumors when possible

Combination therapies often give the best outcomes, depending on the patient’s condition.

Final Thoughts on Cancer Awareness

Cancer can be prevented and treated if detected early. A healthy lifestyle, regular screenings, and avoiding exposure to carcinogens are key steps to reducing your risk.