Cancer

• Cancer is caused by uncontrolled cell growth and division
• This uncontrolled growth and division is a result of changes that occur to the cells and results in the formation of a tumour (a mass of cells). Not all tumours are cancerous. They can be benign or malignant
• 1. Benign - This is where the tumour grows until there’s no more room. The tumour stays in one place (usually within a membrane) rather than invading other tissues in the body. This type isn’t normally dangerous, and the tumor isn’t cancerous
  2. Malignant - This is where the tumour grows and spreads to neighbouring healthy tissues. Cells can break off and spread to other parts of the body by travelling in the bloodstream. The malignant cells then invade healthy tissues elsewhere in the body and form secondary tumours. Malignant tumours are dangerous and can be fatal - they are cancers
• Risk factors can increase the chance of some cancers

  Anyone can develop cancer. Having risk factors doesn’t mean that you’ll definitely get cancer. It just means that you’re at an increased risk of developing the disease. Cancer survival rates have increased due to medical advances such as improved treatment, being able to diagnose cancer earlier and increased screening for the disease
• What does having risk factors for cancer indicate?

  It indicates an increased risk of developing the disease.
• How have cancer survival rates changed over time?

  Cancer survival rates have increased due to medical advances.
• What are some medical advances that have improved cancer survival rates?

  • Improved treatment options
  • Earlier diagnosis of cancer
  • Increased screening for the disease
• What is a well-known lifestyle risk factor for lung cancer?

  Smoking
• Besides lung cancer, what other types of cancer are linked to smoking?

  Smoking is linked to mouth, bowel, stomach, and cervical cancer.
• What is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer after smoking?

  Obesity
• How does obesity relate to cancer?

  Obesity has been linked to many different cancers, including bowel, liver, and kidney cancer.
• What is the risk associated with UV exposure?

  Increased chance of developing skin cancer.
• Who is at higher risk of developing skin cancer due to UV exposure?

  People who live in sunny climates and those who spend a lot of time outside.
• What is a risk factor associated with the use of sun beds?

  Frequent use of sun beds increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
• How can viral infections increase cancer risk?

  Infection with certain viruses can increase the chances of developing specific types of cancer.
• Which viruses are linked to an increased risk of liver cancer?

  Hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses.
• How can hepatitis viruses be spread?

  Through unprotected sex or sharing needles.
• What genetic factor can increase susceptibility to cancer?

  Inherited faulty genes.
• What mutations are linked to an increased likelihood of breast and ovarian cancer?

  Mutations in the BRCA genes.