What is cancer? What is a tumor?

Question

Luna Cruz · Accepted Answer

Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth forming tumors, with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body.

The body normally produces new cells when needed and replaces dying old cells with newly formed ones, but occasionally this process goes awry, resulting in the growth of new cells when not needed and the death of old cells before they should. A tumor is an uncontrolled growth of cells that typically takes the form of a mass or lump, but they can also be dispersed widely. Tumors can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (not cancerous). Malignant progression refers to the series of events that occur when normal cells develop into cells that can form a noticeable mass and ultimately become cancerous. A lump, irregular bleeding, a protracted cough, inexplicable weight loss, and altered bowel movements are among the possible signs and symptoms. Over 100 different types of cancer affect people. Treatment options for cancer include radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery.

Penelope Adams · Answer

undefined Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. A tumor is an abnormal mass or lump of tissue that may be benign or malignant.