Anti-Neoplastic Agents (Cancer)
Definition:
Cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth and division of body cells, leading to the formation of abnormal tissues known as neoplasms or tumors.
Neoplasm: A mass of tissue that develops abnormally when cells do not undergo timely apoptosis (cell death) or proliferate excessively.
Conditions of Cancer
Disorganized Growth: Cells do not follow the normal structure and function.
Uncontrolled Cell Division: Continuous proliferation without regulatory signals.
Tissue Invasion: Tumor cells invade adjacent tissues.
Lack of Apoptosis: Cells do not undergo programmed cell death, allowing accumulation.
Causes of Cancer
Genetic Factors:
Inherited mutations and genetic predispositions.
Physical and Chemical Agents:
Smoking: Major risk factor for lung and other cancers.
Alcohol Consumption: Linked to various cancers including liver and breast.
Diet: Poor dietary habits can increase cancer risk.
Hormones:
Imbalances can promote certain cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer.
Infections:
Viruses: HPV, Hepatitis B and C.
Bacteria and Parasites: Certain strains linked to cancer development.
Radiation:
Ionizing Radiation: X-rays, gamma rays.
Non-Ionizing Radiation: Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun.
Rare Causes:
Organ Transplantation: Immunosuppression increases cancer risk.
Trauma: Chronic injuries may lead to cancer in rare cases.
Types of Cancer
Carcinoma:
Originates in epithelial cells.
Common in lungs, breasts, pancreas, skin, and other organs.
Sarcoma:
Arises from connective or supportive tissues.
Affects muscles, fat, bone, cartilage, or blood vessels.
Melanoma:
Develops in pigment-producing skin cells.
Highly aggressive and prone to spreading.
Lymphoma:
Affects lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell).
Includes Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Leukemia:
Cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
Involves the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells.
Treatment of Cancer
Chemotherapy:
Uses drugs to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy:
Utilizes high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.
Surgery:
Physically removes tumors from the body.
Hormone Therapy:
Blocks or removes hormones that fuel certain cancers.
Biological Response Modifiers:
Enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer.
Immunotherapy:
Uses the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.
Bone Marrow Transplant:
Replaces damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow.