INTRODUCTION TO CANCER BIOLOGY
ASSIGNMENT
NAME:RIYA SHARMA
UID:23BBT10072
COURSE: BSC BIOTECHNOLOGY (4TH
SEMESTER)
Easy Section
Q.1)Define the term Neoplasm and describe all forms
of neoplasm briefly.
Neoplasm
A neoplasm is an abnormal mass of tissue resulting from excessive, uncontrolled, and
unregulated cell division. This abnormal growth occurs due to genetic mutations in the cells,
disrupting their normal growth cycle. Neoplasms can occur in any tissue or organ of the
body, and their behavior varies from harmless to life-threatening conditions.
Classification of Neoplasms
Neoplasms are broadly classified into three types based on their behavior, growth pattern, and
ability to spread:
1. Benign Neoplasm (Non-Cancerous)
• These are slow-growing tumors that do not invade nearby tissues or spread to other
body parts.
• Benign neoplasms are usually encapsulated with well-defined boundaries.
• They do not undergo metastasis (spread to other parts of the body).
• These tumors are less harmful but may cause discomfort by compressing nearby
tissues or organs.
• Example:
o Lipoma: Tumor of fat tissue.
o Fibroma: Tumor of fibrous tissue.
o Adenoma: Tumor of glandular tissue.
2. Malignant Neoplasm (Cancerous)
• These tumors grow rapidly and invade surrounding tissues.
• Malignant neoplasms have irregular, poorly defined boundaries.
• They can spread to distant organs through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, a
process called metastasis.
• Malignant tumors can destroy normal tissues, impair organ function, and be life-
threatening.
• Example:
o Carcinoma: Cancer of epithelial tissue (e.g., Lung cancer, Breast cancer).
o Sarcoma: Cancer of connective tissue (e.g., Bone cancer).
o Leukemia: Cancer of blood-forming tissues.
o Lymphoma: Cancer of lymphatic tissues.
3. Premalignant Neoplasm (Precancerous)
• These are abnormal growths that have the potential to develop into cancer if left
untreated.
• They do not invade nearby tissues but show cellular changes indicating the risk of
becoming malignant.
• Early detection and treatment can prevent the development of cancer.
• Example:
o Dysplasia: Abnormal cell growth in epithelial tissues.
o Leukoplakia: White patches in the mouth or tongue, often linked with
tobacco use.
o Adenomatous Polyps: Abnormal growths in the colon that may lead to colon
cancer.
Causes of Neoplasm
• Genetic mutations
• Exposure to radiation
• Chemical carcinogens
• Viral infections (e.g., HPV, Hepatitis B)
• Chronic inflammation
• Hereditary factors
Symptoms of Neoplasm
• Swelling or lump in the body
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Pain in the affected area
• Abnormal bleeding
• Changes in skin appearance
Diagnosis of Neoplasm
• Physical Examination
• Imaging Tests (X-ray, CT scan, MRI)
• Biopsy
• Blood Tests
• Genetic Testing
Treatment of Neoplasm
• Benign Neoplasms: Surgical removal
• Malignant Neoplasms:
o Surgery
o Chemotherapy
o Radiation therapy
o Immunotherapy
o Targeted therapy
Q.2) Differentiate the term Cancer and Tumor with
examples
Both cancer and tumor are terms used to describe abnormal cell
growth in the body, but they have different meanings. While all
cancers involve tumors, not all tumors are cancerous. Understanding
their differences is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Definition
• Cancer: A disease characterized by uncontrolled, abnormal cell growth that can
invade nearby tissues and spread to other body parts (Metastasis). Cancer is
always malignant and can be life-threatening if not treated.
• Tumor: An abnormal mass or lump of tissue formed by excessive cell growth.
Tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Types
Tumor Types:
1. Benign Tumor:
o Non-cancerous.
Grows slowly without spreading.
o
Example: Lipoma, Fibroma.
o
2. Malignant Tumor:
o Cancerous and harmful.
o Grows rapidly and spreads to other organs.
o Example: Sarcoma, Carcinoma.
Key Differences
Basis Cancer Tumor
Can be benign (harmless)
Nature Always malignant and dangerous.
or malignant (harmful).
Growth Benign tumors grow slowly, while
Rapid and uncontrolled.
Rate malignant tumors grow quickly.
Spreads to other body parts
Benign tumors do not spread, but malignant
Metastasis through blood or lymphatic
tumors can spread.
system.
Weight loss, fatigue, pain,
Lump or swelling, pain (in some cases), or
Symptoms abnormal bleeding, and organ
no symptoms in benign tumors.
damage.
Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation, Surgery (Benign tumors), Surgery,
Treatment
Immunotherapy. Chemotherapy (Malignant tumors).
Benign tumors are harmless, while
Prognosis Life-threatening if untreated.
malignant tumors can be life-threatening.
Breast cancer, Lung cancer, Lipoma (benign), Fibroma (benign),
Examples
Leukemia. Sarcoma (malignant).
Diagnosis
• Tumors: Physical examination, Biopsy, Imaging tests (X-ray, MRI).
• Cancer: Biopsy, Blood tests, CT scans, Genetic testing.
Treatment
• Tumors:
o Benign: Surgery.
o Malignant: Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy.
• Cancer:
o Surgery
o Chemotherapy
o Radiation therapy
o Immunotherapy
o Targeted therapy
Medium level questions
Q.4) Explain at least 4 different risk factors for cancer
A.3) Risk Factors for Cancer
Introduction
Cancer is a complex disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of cancer. These factors may be genetic,
environmental, or lifestyle-related. Understanding these risk factors helps in early detection,
prevention, and treatment of cancer.
Types of Risk Factors for Cancer
Cancer risk factors are divided into two main categories:
• Modifiable Risk Factors: Factors that can be controlled or changed.
• Non-Modifiable Risk Factors: Factors that cannot be changed, such as genetic or
hereditary factors.
1. Genetic Risk Factors (Non-Modifiable)
• Family history of cancer increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer like
breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancer.
• Mutations in specific genes (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2) are linked to breast and
ovarian cancer.
• Some inherited syndromes, such as Lynch Syndrome, increase the risk of colon
cancer.
Example: If a person's parent or sibling has cancer, their risk of developing cancer is higher.
2. Lifestyle Risk Factors (Modifiable)
Certain lifestyle habits can increase cancer risk, including:
• Smoking and Tobacco Use: Major cause of lung, mouth, throat, and bladder cancer.
• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol increases the risk of liver, breast, and
mouth cancer.
• Unhealthy Diet: High intake of processed foods, red meat, and low consumption of
fruits and vegetables increases the risk of colon and stomach cancer.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise increases the risk of breast, colon, and
endometrial cancer.
Example: Long-term smoking can lead to lung cancer.
3. Environmental and Occupational Risk Factors (Modifiable)
Exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, and pollutants in the environment or workplace can
lead to cancer.
• Radiation Exposure: UV rays from the sun increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Air Pollution: Increases the risk of lung cancer.
• Asbestos Exposure: Common in construction workers, increases the risk of
mesothelioma (lung cancer).
• Pesticides and Industrial Chemicals: Linked to various cancers.
Example: Prolonged exposure to asbestos can cause lung cancer.
4. Biological Risk Factors (Non-Modifiable & Modifiable)
Some infections and medical conditions increase cancer risk:
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Linked to cervical cancer.
• Hepatitis B and C Viruses: Increase the risk of liver cancer.
• Helicobacter pylori Infection: Linked to stomach cancer.
• Chronic Inflammation: Long-term infections or inflammation can cause cell damage
and cancer development.
Example: HPV infection is a leading cause of cervical cancer.
Other Risk Factors
• Age: The risk of cancer increases with age.
• Hormonal Imbalance: Estrogen therapy may increase the risk of breast and ovarian
cancer.
• Obesity: Linked to breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.
Prevention of Cancer
• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products.
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Get vaccinated against cancer-causing infections (HPV, Hepatitis B).
Conclusion
Cancer is influenced by various risk factors, including genetic, lifestyle, environmental, and
biological factors. While some risk factors cannot be changed, many can be prevented
through lifestyle modifications and early medical interventions. Raising awareness about
these risk factors and encouraging regular health check-ups play a crucial role in reducing
cancer-related deaths.
Activity based questions
Q.7)Describe breast cancer predominantly present in
females and discuss its incidence, prevalence,diagnosis
and treatment
Breast Cancer
Introduction
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers predominantly affecting females
worldwide. It occurs when abnormal cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably, forming a
tumor. It can affect both men and women, but it is far more common in women. Early
detection and proper treatment significantly improve the survival rate of patients.
Definition
Breast cancer is a type of malignant tumor that develops in the cells of the breast tissue,
usually starting in the milk ducts (ductal carcinoma) or the lobules (lobular carcinoma) of the
breast.
Incidence and Prevalence
• Incidence: It is the number of new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in a particular
population within a specific period.
o Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women, accounting
for 1 in 8 women globally during their lifetime.
o According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 2.3 million
women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 worldwide.
• Prevalence: It refers to the total number of people living with breast cancer at a given
time.
o Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women, especially in
developed countries.
o The highest prevalence is reported in North America, Europe, and
Australia, while lower rates are observed in Africa and Asia.
Risk Factors of Breast Cancer
• Family history of breast cancer
• Genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes)
• Early menstruation (before age 12)
• Late menopause (after age 55)
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Obesity
• Alcohol consumption
• Lack of physical activity
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
• Lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Change in breast size or shape
• Pain in the breast or nipple
• Nipple discharge (especially bloody discharge)
• Redness or swelling of the breast
• Skin dimpling or puckering
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Early diagnosis plays a key role in improving the survival rate. Common diagnostic methods
include:
1. Physical Examination: Checking for lumps or changes in breast shape.
2. Mammography: X-ray imaging of the breast to detect tumors.
3. Ultrasound Scan: Used to determine if the lump is solid or filled with fluid.
4. Biopsy: Removal of breast tissue for microscopic examination to confirm cancer.
5. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Detailed imaging of breast tissues.
6. Blood Tests: Detects cancer markers.
Staging of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is classified into four stages based on the tumor size and its spread:
Stage Description Spread
Non-invasive cancer (Carcinoma in
Stage 0 No spread
situ)
Stage I Small tumor (up to 2 cm) No spread
Stage II Larger tumor (2-5 cm) May spread to nearby lymph nodes
Stage Description Spread
Stage
Large tumor (>5 cm) Spread to lymph nodes and nearby tissues
III
Stage Spread to distant organs like lungs, liver, or
Advanced cancer
IV bones
Treatment of Breast Cancer
Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. The common
treatment options include:
1. Surgery:
o Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small margin of tissue.
o Mastectomy: Removal of one or both breasts.
2. Radiation Therapy:
o Use of high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
3. Chemotherapy:
o Use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
4. Hormone Therapy:
o Used in hormone receptor-positive cancers to block estrogen or progesterone
hormones.
5. Targeted Therapy:
o Drugs like Herceptin are used to target specific proteins in cancer cells.
6. Immunotherapy:
o Boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer cells.
Prevention of Breast Cancer
• Regular self-breast examination
• Healthy diet and regular exercise
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking
• Breastfeeding
• Early screening in high-risk individuals
• Genetic counseling and testing
Prognosis and Survival Rate
The survival rate depends on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed:
• Stage I: 98% survival rate
• Stage II: 85% survival rate
• Stage III: 60% survival rate
• Stage IV: 22% survival rate
Conclusion
Breast cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges worldwide, particularly in
females. Early detection through regular screening and awareness campaigns can greatly
improve survival rates. With advancements in diagnosis and treatment, breast cancer can be
effectively managed. Lifestyle modifications and genetic testing play a vital role in
preventing breast cancer in high-risk individuals.
