Cancer - A Study

Class: XII

Roll Number: ___________

School Name: ___________

cells in the body. These cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body

through the blood or lymphatic system, a process known as metastasis.

There are two main types of tumors associated with cancer:

1. Benign Tumors: Non-cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the body.

2. Malignant Tumors: Cancerous and have the potential to grow aggressively, invading surrounding

tissues.

Cancer can affect any part of the body, and its development is influenced by genetic mutations,

environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. It is a leading cause of death globally but can be

managed if detected early. This file aims to provide a comprehensive overview of cancer, including

its types, causes, symptoms, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and the current scenario in India.
Types of Cancer
Cancer is classified based on the type of tissue or organ it affects. The major types include:

1. Carcinomas: Cancers that originate in the epithelial tissues, such as skin, lungs, and liver.

2. Sarcomas: These develop in connective tissues like bones, muscles, and cartilage.

3. Leukemia: A type of blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow and leads to an overproduction

of abnormal white blood cells.

4. Lymphomas: Cancers of the lymphatic system, affecting lymph nodes and other immune

components.

5. Melanomas: A specific type of skin cancer originating in pigment-producing cells (melanocytes).

Each type of cancer has unique characteristics, risk factors, and treatments. For instance,

carcinomas are the most common type and include lung, breast, and colon cancers. Understanding

the types of cancer is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment planning.
Causes of Cancer
Cancer is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The major

causes include:

1. Genetic Mutations: Changes in DNA that disrupt normal cell functioning, often inherited or caused

by external factors.

2. Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of exercise

increase the risk.

3. Radiation Exposure: UV radiation from the sun and ionizing radiation from X-rays can damage

DNA.

4. Infections: Certain viruses like Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B/C are linked to

cancers such as cervical and liver cancer.

5. Pollution: Exposure to carcinogens like asbestos, arsenic, and industrial chemicals.

While some causes, like genetic predisposition, cannot be controlled, adopting a healthy lifestyle

can significantly reduce cancer risk. Awareness and early screening also play a vital role in

prevention.
Symptoms of Cancer
Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. General symptoms include:

- Unexplained weight loss.

- Persistent fatigue.

- Fever and night sweats.

- Pain in specific areas.

Specific symptoms based on cancer type include:

- Lung Cancer: Chronic cough, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.

- Breast Cancer: Lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast shape or size.

- Colon Cancer: Blood in stool, changes in bowel habits.

Early detection of these symptoms is critical for successful treatment. Regular check-ups and paying

attention to changes in the body can help identify cancer in its initial stages.
Diagnosis of Cancer
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective cancer treatment. Common diagnostic methods include:

1. Biopsy: A sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.

2. Imaging Techniques: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds help visualize tumors.

3. Blood Tests: Tumor markers like PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) and CA-125 (Ovarian Cancer

Marker) indicate cancer presence.

4. Genetic Tests: Identify inherited mutations linked to cancers like breast and ovarian cancer.

Early and precise diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and helps in planning targeted therapies.

Advanced technologies like PET scans and molecular diagnostics have revolutionized cancer

detection.
Prevention of Cancer
Preventing cancer involves lifestyle modifications and regular screenings. Key prevention strategies

include:

1. Avoiding Tobacco: Smoking and tobacco use are major causes of lung and oral cancers.

2. Healthy Diet: Eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing processed and red meats.

3. Regular Exercise: Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing sedentary behavior.

4. Vaccinations: HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines protect against cervical and liver cancers.

5. Sun Protection: Using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing to prevent skin cancer.

Educating the public about risk factors and encouraging preventive measures can significantly lower

cancer rates.
Treatment of Cancer
Cancer treatment depends on its type, stage, and patient health. Common treatments include:

1. Surgery: Removal of tumors or affected tissues.

2. Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and destroy cancer cells.

3. Chemotherapy: Drugs used to kill or inhibit cancer cell growth.

4. Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.

5. Targeted Therapy: Drugs designed to attack specific cancer cell molecules.

Emerging treatments like gene therapy and CAR-T cell therapy are showing promise. Combining

treatments (e.g., surgery with chemotherapy) is often more effective.

limited healthcare access. Common cancers include:

- Breast Cancer (most prevalent among women).

- Oral Cancer (linked to tobacco use).

- Cervical Cancer (due to HPV infection).

Government initiatives like the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) aim to improve cancer

prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Increasing awareness campaigns and affordable healthcare

facilities are key to addressing this public health issue.

medical advancements offer hope. Public awareness, regular screenings, and adopting healthy

habits can reduce the risk. Continued research and innovation are essential for better treatments

and improved survival rates. Together, individuals and healthcare systems can combat this deadly

disease effectively.
Bibliography
1. NCERT Biology Textbook, Class XII.

2. WHO (World Health Organization) website.

3. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) publications.

4. Relevant journal articles and online resources.