• ART
INTEGRATION
• Biology
CANCER AND TREATMENT OF
CANCER Done By
Hari Balaji
Magizh
Sree Sudhan
Introduction to
Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth
and spread. It affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds.
Learn more about what causes cancer, how it develops, and the
available treatment options.
What is Cancer?
Cancer arises from mutations in the DNA of cells, leading to abnormal cell
growth. These cells can invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant
parts of the body.
1 Uncontrolled Cell 2 Invasion and Metastasis
Growth Cancer cells can invade
Cancer cells divide and surrounding tissues and
multiply uncontrollably, spread to distant parts of the
forming tumors that can body through the
disrupt normal tissue bloodstream or lymphatic
function. system.
3 Genetic Mutations
Mutations in the DNA of cells can alter their normal growth and
division processes, leading to cancer development.
Types of Cancer
Cancer is broadly categorized by the type of tissue from which it originates. Each type of cancer has its own
characteristics, treatment options, and prognosis.
Carcinomas Sarcomas Leukemias and Lymphomas
Cancer that originates in epithelial Cancer that arises from connective Cancer that originates in blood-
tissue, which lines organs and tissue, such as bone, cartilage, and forming tissues, such as bone
cavities, such as skin, lung, and muscle, like osteosarcoma or marrow, leading to an
breast cancer. leiomyosarcoma. overproduction of abnormal white
blood cells.
Causes of Cancer
Cancer can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some factors increase the risk of cancer
development, while others are directly involved in causing cancer.
Genetic Predisposition Environmental Factors
Inherited mutations in genes that regulate cell growth Exposure to carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke,
and division can increase the risk of developing certain ultraviolet radiation, and certain chemicals, can
cancers. damage DNA and contribute to cancer development.
Lifestyle Choices Viral Infections
Factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, unhealthy Certain viruses, such as HPV and hepatitis B and C, can
diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity can increase integrate their genetic material into human cells,
the risk of several types of cancer. increasing the risk of cancer development.
Symptoms of Cancer
Cancer symptoms can vary greatly depending on the type and location of
the cancer. Some symptoms are subtle, while others are more noticeable.
Seek medical attention if you experience any persistent or concerning
symptoms.
Fatigue Unexplained Weight Loss
Persistent and unexplained tiredness. Significant weight loss without any
changes in diet or exercise.
Fever Pain
Persistent fever, especially in the Persistent or worsening pain that is
absence of infection. not relieved by medication.
Diagnosis of Cancer
Diagnosing cancer involves a combination of medical history, physical examination,
and diagnostic tests. The specific tests will vary depending on the suspected type of
cancer and the patient's symptoms.
1 Medical History
Gather information about the patient's symptoms, family history, and
previous medical conditions.
2 Physical Exam
The doctor will examine the patient for any signs of cancer, such as
lumps, swelling, or tenderness.
3 Diagnostic Tests
These can include imaging tests, biopsies, blood tests, and other
procedures to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the
cancer.
Treatment Options
Cancer treatment aims to cure, control, or manage the disease. The best
treatment option depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and the
patient's overall health.
Surgery Removing the cancerous tumor
and surrounding tissues.
Radiation Therapy Using high-energy rays to kill
cancer cells.
Chemotherapy Using drugs to kill cancer cells.
Immunotherapy Boosting the body's immune
system to fight cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy Using drugs that target specific
molecules involved in cancer
growth and spread.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs can be
administered intravenously, orally, or topically.
Cell Cycle Inhibition
Chemotherapy drugs can interfere with the normal cell cycle,
preventing cancer cells from dividing and multiplying.
DNA Damage
Some chemotherapy drugs damage the DNA of cancer cells,
leading to cell death.
Side Effects
Chemotherapy can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting,
hair loss, and fatigue.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to damage and kill cancer
cells. The radiation is delivered externally or internally.
1 External Beam 2 Internal Radiation
Radiation Therapy
Radiation is delivered from Radioactive material is
a machine outside the placed inside the body,
body, targeting the near the cancer, where it
cancerous area. delivers radiation directly
to the tumor.
3 Side Effects
Radiation therapy can cause side effects such as fatigue, skin
irritation, and hair loss, but these are usually temporary.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Cancer is a complex and challenging disease. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, advancements in
medical technology and research are continually improving treatment options and outcomes.
Early Detection Multidisciplinary Care Research and Innovation
Early detection is crucial for Effective cancer treatment involves Ongoing research and innovation
successful treatment, so regular a multidisciplinary team of are driving progress in cancer
screenings and awareness of healthcare professionals, including treatment, leading to new therapies
symptoms are essential. doctors, nurses, and therapists. and improved outcomes.
