Chapter 15: Problem 7

Summarize what causes cancer and what tools are available to diagnose and treat it.

Short Answer

Expert verified

Cancer is caused by various factors including genetic mutations, lifestyle choices, certain infections, and environmental exposures. It can be diagnosed through imaging procedures, laboratory tests, biopsies, endoscopy, and genetic tests. Treatments include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted and hormone therapy, stem cell transplant, and precision medicine.

Step by step solution

Define Cancer

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Features of cancer involve changes at the genetic level which alter the cell’s normal function, enabling these cells to proliferate and evade mechanisms that often control their growth.

Discuss Causes of Cancer

The cause of cancer can be attributed to diverse factors including genetic mutations, lifestyle factors (tobacco and alcohol use, diet, and physical activity), certain types of infections, and environmental exposures to different types of chemicals and radiation.

Explain Tools for Diagnosing Cancer

Diagnosing cancer often requires a series of tests such as imaging procedures (MRI, CT scans, Ultrasounds, etc.), laboratory tests (blood tests), biopsies, endoscopy, and genetic tests to spot cancer cells or reveal abnormalities.

Discuss Treatment Approaches

Treatment for cancer can be diverse and often depends on the type and stage of the cancer. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, stem cell transplant, and precision medicine.

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Summarize what causes cancer and what tools are available to diagnose and treat it.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Cancer

Discuss Causes of Cancer

Explain Tools for Diagnosing Cancer

Discuss Treatment Approaches

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