What are Cancerous Cells?
Cancerous cells are abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. Unlike normal cells that grow, divide, and die in a regulated manner, cancer cells bypass these mechanisms, leading to the formation of
tumors or
leukemia in the blood.
How do Cancerous Cells Form?
Cancerous cells form through a series of genetic mutations that occur in the DNA of a normal cell. These mutations can be triggered by various factors, including
environmental influences such as exposure to carcinogens, genetic predispositions, and lifestyle factors like diet and smoking. When these mutations affect genes that regulate cell growth and division, they can lead to cancer.
Uncontrolled Growth: Cancer cells do not respond to the body's signals to stop growing and dividing.
Invasion: They can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body through a process called
metastasis.
Immortality: Cancer cells can evade the normal process of programmed cell death, or
apoptosis.
Angiogenesis: They can stimulate the growth of new blood vessels to supply nutrients to the tumor.
Imaging Tests: Techniques like X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans help visualize tumors.
Biopsies: A sample of tissue is taken from the suspected area and examined under a microscope.
Blood Tests: Certain cancers release substances into the blood that can be detected through laboratory tests.
Genetic Testing: Identifying specific genetic mutations can help in diagnosing and determining treatment options.
Carcinomas: These originate in the epithelial cells and include cancers of the skin, lungs, breasts, and colon.
Sarcomas: These arise from connective tissues such as bones, muscles, and fat.
Leukemias: Cancers of the blood-forming tissues, leading to abnormal blood cells.
Lymphomas: These affect the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system.
Myelomas: Cancers that occur in plasma cells of the bone marrow.
Surgery: Removal of the tumor and surrounding tissues.
Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy radiation to kill or shrink cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to destroy cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy: Drugs or other substances specifically target cancer cells with minimal damage to normal cells.
Immunotherapy: Boosting the body's immune system to fight cancer.
Hormone Therapy: Used for cancers that are hormone-sensitive, such as some breast and prostate cancers.
Stem Cell Transplant: Replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
Can Cancer Be Prevented?
While not all cancers can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk:
Avoiding tobacco use.
Maintaining a healthy diet and weight.
Engaging in regular physical activity.
Limiting alcohol consumption.
Protecting skin from excessive sun exposure.
Getting vaccinated against cancer-causing viruses such as HPV and Hepatitis B.
