The Evolution of Cancer Cells: How Normal Cells Become Tumor Cells

 


Cancer arises from the transformation of normal cells into tumor cells in a multi-stage process that generally progresses from a pre-cancerous lesion to a malignant tumor. These changes are the result of the interaction between a person's genetic factors and environmental factors (including behaviors such as smoking). Genetics play an important role in determining how quickly cancer develops, as well as which types of cancer you are at risk for developing.

 

What is Cancer?

The development and spread of cancer is a multi-step process. A normal cell undergoes changes, allowing it to grow out of control and invade nearby tissues. These cells can also break away from where they began (the primary tumor) and travel through your blood or lymph system to form new tumors in other parts of your body (metastases). This can be one reason why cancers that start in one part of your body may end up spreading throughout your entire body. Some types of cancer are more likely than others to spread throughout your body. And some cancers are more likely than others to come back after treatment.

 

The Effects of Smoking on Lung Cancer

It is well known that smoking can cause lung cancer.

 
Common Causes of Breast Cancer


There are several risk factors that can cause breast cancer, including family history, advancing age, obesity, and certain genetic mutations. One in four women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.

 

What Increases Your Risk of Prostate Cancer?

Having a family history or ethnic background increases your risk of developing prostate cancer. As men age, they are more likely to develop prostate cancer than younger men. Diets high in red meat and processed meats may also increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.

 

Risk Factors for Colorectal (Bowel) Cancer

Age – Risk increases with age. Colorectal cancer is not usually seen in people younger than 40. The average age at diagnosis is 66 years, although it can occur at any age.

 

Genetic Testing and Inherited Forms of Breast and Ovarian Cancers

For families who are at high risk for breast or ovarian cancer due to genetic testing, genetic counseling and risk-reducing surgery can be used to reduce a person's chances of developing cancer.

 

Genetic Testing and Inherited Forms of Colon and Rectal Cancers

If a family member has an inherited form of the colon or rectal cancer, it is important to talk with your doctor about genetic testing. Most genes related to these types of cancers have been identified, so testing may help you and your doctor plan your medical care.

 

Genetic Testing and Inherited Forms of Lung, Esophageal, Gastric, Liver, Gallbladder, Kidney, Pancreatic, Small Intestine, Brain, Urinary Bladder, Thyroid, and Endometrial Cancers

Patients who have a family history of inherited cancer syndromes may choose to undergo genetic testing to determine whether they have inherited one or more of these genes.

 

Prevention Strategies for Breast and Prostate Cancers

Breast cancer, in particular, is difficult cancer to treat because it’s so easy for cancer cells to spread beyond the original tumor site.



There is no one easy answer to preventing cancer. However, some suggestions for how to reduce your risk include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use.