Cancer: Understanding the Disease
Contents
1. Introduction
2. Types of Cancer
3. Causes of Cancer
4. Symptoms of Cancer
5. Diagnosis of Cancer
6. Treatment of Cancer
7. Preventive Measures
8. Impact of Cancer on Society
9. Case Studies and Current Research
10. Conclusion
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that “ZEHRA BENAZIR” Student of
class 12th PCB has successfully completed her biology
project on the “Cancer” under the guidance of her
teacher………………
Internal examiner. External examiner.
Principal’s signature
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my special thanks of gratitude
to my Biology teacher “….……………..” for his able
guidance and support in completing my Project.
I would also like to extend my gratitude to the Principal
Mam “…………….” For providing me with all the facility
that was required.
1. Introduction
Cancer is a life-threatening disease characterized by the
uncontrolled growth and division of cells in the body. Unlike
normal cells, cancer cells fail to follow the natural cycle of
growth and apoptosis, leading to the formation of tumors.
Globally, cancer is a major health concern, contributing to
millions of deaths annually.
• Definition: Cancer is a disease where abnormal cells
divide uncontrollably and destroy body tissues.
• Historical Perspective: The term "cancer" was first
used by Hippocrates, a Greek physician, around 400
B.C.
• Significance: Understanding cancer is crucial due to its
high prevalence, economic burden, and impact on
quality of life.
Types of cancer
2. Types of Cancer
Cancer can develop in various tissues and organs, leading to
over 100 types. Major types include:
1. Carcinomas:
o Origin: Epithelial cells (skin or tissues lining
organs).
o Example: Lung cancer, breast cancer.
2. Sarcomas:
o Origin: Connective or supportive tissues like bones,
muscles, or fat.
o Example: Osteosarcoma (bone cancer).
3. Leukemias:
o Origin: Blood-forming tissues like bone marrow.
o Example: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
4. Lymphomas:
o Origin: Lymphatic system (part of the immune
system).
o Example: Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
5. Melanomas:
o Origin: Melanocytes (pigment-producing cells).
o Example: Skin cancer.
6. Brain and Spinal Cord Cancers:
o Origin: Nervous system cells.
o Example: Glioblastoma.
3. Causes of Cancer
The development of cancer is complex and influenced by
genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
1. Genetic Factors:
o Mutations in DNA (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in
breast cancer).
o Family history of cancer.
2. Environmental Factors:
o Exposure to carcinogens like asbestos, UV rays, or
tobacco smoke.
o Radiation exposure.
3. Lifestyle Factors:
o Unhealthy diet (high-fat, low-fiber diet).
o Lack of physical activity.
o Smoking and alcohol consumption.
4. Biological Factors:
o Certain viruses (e.g., Human Papillomavirus (HPV),
Hepatitis B and C).
o Hormonal imbalances.
5. Age:
o Risk increases with age due to the accumulation of
genetic mutations over time.
4. Symptoms of Cancer
Symptoms vary based on the type, stage, and location of the
cancer. Common symptoms include:
1. General Symptoms:
o Fatigue and weakness.
o Unexplained weight loss.
o Persistent fever or infections.
2. Specific Symptoms:
o Breast Cancer: Lumps in the breast, nipple
discharge.
o Lung Cancer: Chronic cough, shortness of breath.
o Colorectal Cancer: Blood in stool, abdominal
pain.
o Skin Cancer: Changes in moles or skin
pigmentation.
3. Advanced Symptoms:
o Severe pain, difficulty swallowing, jaundice (in liver
cancers).
5. Diagnosis of Cancer
Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Diagnostic methods include:
1. Physical Examination:
o Palpating lumps, changes in skin, or swelling.
2. Imaging Techniques:
o X-rays, CT scans, MRI, PET scans.
3. Laboratory Tests:
o Blood tests (e.g., tumor markers like PSA for
prostate cancer).
4. Biopsy:
o Sampling tissue from the affected area for
microscopic examination.
5. Genetic Testing:
o Identifying hereditary cancer risks (e.g., BRCA
mutation testing).
6. Treatment of Cancer
Cancer treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health
of the patient. Key methods include:
1. Surgery:
o Removing cancerous tissue.
o Effective for localized tumors.
2. Radiation Therapy:
o Using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
o Side effects: Fatigue, skin irritation.
3. Chemotherapy:
o Administering drugs to kill or inhibit cancer cell
growth.
o Side effects: Hair loss, nausea, weakened immune
system.
4. Immunotherapy:
o Boosting the immune system to fight cancer (e.g.,
monoclonal antibodies).
5. Targeted Therapy:
o Drugs targeting specific molecules in cancer cells.
6. Hormone Therapy:
o Blocking hormones that fuel certain cancers (e.g.,
breast and prostate cancer).
7. Stem Cell Transplant:
o Restoring blood-forming cells in leukemia or
lymphoma patients.
7. Preventive Measures
Reducing cancer risk involves adopting a healthy lifestyle and
minimizing exposure to carcinogens:
1. Healthy Diet:
o Eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
o Avoiding processed and red meat.
2. Regular Exercise:
o Maintaining a healthy weight.
3. Avoiding Tobacco and Alcohol:
o Tobacco causes 22% of cancer deaths globally.
4. Vaccination:
o HPV and Hepatitis vaccines reduce cervical and
liver cancer risks.
5. Early Screening:
o Regular mammograms, Pap smears,
colonoscopies, etc.
6. Sun Protection:
o Using sunscreen to reduce skin cancer risk.
8. Impact of Cancer on Society
Cancer affects individuals and society on multiple levels:
1. Economic Burden:
o High treatment costs strain families and healthcare
systems.
2. Emotional and Psychological Effects:
o Stress, depression, and anxiety in patients and
caregivers.
3. Global Health Challenge:
o Disparities in access to healthcare in developing
countries.
4. Awareness and Advocacy:
o Organizations like WHO and cancer societies run
awareness campaigns.
9. Case Studies and Current Research
Case Study: Breast Cancer Awareness in India
• Highlight efforts by organizations to promote early
detection and treatment access.
Research Highlights:
1. Immunotherapy:
o Breakthroughs in checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., PD-1
blockers).
2. CRISPR Technology:
o Editing genes to target cancer cells.
3. Artificial Intelligence:
o AI in early diagnosis and personalized medicine.
4. Nanotechnology:
o Using nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery.
10. Conclusion
Cancer remains a daunting challenge, but advancements in
research and technology have improved survival rates and
quality of life. Public awareness, early detection, and lifestyle
modifications can play pivotal roles in combating this disease. A
collective effort from governments, healthcare providers, and
individuals is essential for reducing the global cancer burden.
Bibliography
1. Class 12 Biology Textbook (NCERT).
2. World Health Organization (WHO) reports on cancer.
3. Research articles on cancer treatments.
