What is Cancer?

"Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the spread is not controlled, it can result in death. Cancer is caused by both external factors (tobacco, infectious organisms, chemicals, and radiation) and internal factors (inherited mutations, hormones, immune conditions, and mutations that occur from metabolism). These causal factors may act together or in sequence to initiate or promote carcinogenesis. Ten or more years often pass between exposure to external factors and detectable cancer. Cancer is treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy" (American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2009. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2009.)

National Cancer Institute, Pat Kenny (AV-9004-3728)

National Cancer Institute (AV-8808-3615)