What is Cancer Research?
Cancer research is a broad field of scientific inquiry focused on understanding the development, progression, and treatment of cancer. Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells, and it can occur in virtually any tissue or organ in the body.
The goals of cancer research include
Understanding Cancer Biology
Researchers aim to uncover the molecular and cellular processes that lead to the formation of cancer cells, how they evade the body’s normal regulatory mechanisms, and how they interact with surrounding tissues.
Early Detection and Diagnosis
While specific types of cancer can be hereditary, the majority are not directly attributed to our inherited genes. Instead, most cancers arise from alterations in genes that occur within a single cell over the course of a person’s lifetime.
Cancer Causes and Risk Factors
Identifying the causes and risk factors associated with different types of cancer is crucial for prevention efforts. This may involve studying genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and occupational factors that contribute to cancer development.
In the intricate landscape of cancer research, scientists strive to unravel the complexities of this formidable disease. The primary objectives encompass understanding the biology that transforms normal cells into malignancies and identifying factors that contribute to cancer development, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, and occupation.
Efforts in early detection focus on refining diagnostic tools, utilizing biomarkers, and advancing imaging technologies to catch cancer at its earliest stages. The ever-evolving arsenal of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies, is a testament to research-driven advancements. Precision in treatment, minimizing harm to healthy cells, is a forefront goal.
Prevention strategies, informed by research findings, involve lifestyle modifications, vaccination programs, and a nuanced understanding of environmental factors. The paradigm of personalized medicine emerges, tailoring treatments to individual genetic and molecular profiles for heightened precision and reduced side effects.
Beyond treatment, researchers are committed to improving the quality of life for cancer survivors, addressing physical, emotional, and social challenges. In conclusion, cancer research stands as a powerful force against cancer, with collaborative efforts aiming to diminish its global burden. As mysteries are unveiled, the prospect of more effective prevention, early detection, and transformative treatments offers hope for a world where lives are not only prolonged but positively transformed.
Most common cancers
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the breast. It can start in one or both breasts.
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs.
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men (after skin cancer), but it can often be treated successfully.
Skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer.
Information Accessibility: Ensuring all relevant information reaches those in need.
- Chromosomal Variation in Man
- Ensembl (Joint software project between the European Bioinformatics Institute and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute)
- International Cancer Genome Consortium Data Portal
- Leiden Open Variation Database
- KMcancerDB
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Genomic Biology
- Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM)
- UCSC Genome Bioinformatics
Consumer/Client: General Information
Source: National Cancer Institute
- Dictionary of Genetics Terms (NCI)
- DNA Learning Center
- The DNA Files
- Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE)
- Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (National Human Genome Research Institute [NHGRI])
- Genetic Science Learning Center (The University of Utah)
- Genetic Testing for Inherited Cancer Susceptibility Syndromes (NCI)
- MedlinePlus: Genetics (National Library of Medicine)
- Talking Glossary of Genetics Terms (NHGRI)
Risk Assessment Information
Source: National Cancer Institute
- Breast Cancer Genetics Referral Screening Tool (B-RST)
- Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (National Cancer Institute [NCI])
- Colorectal Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (NCI)
- Family Health Risk Calculator (The Ohio State University Medical Center)
- Melanoma Risk Assessment Tool (NCI)
Health Professional Practice and Genetics Education Information
Source: National Cancer Institute
- Centre for Genetics Education
- DNA Learning Center
- Essentials of Genetic and Genomic Nursing: Competencies, Curricula Guidelines, and Outcome Indicators, 2nd edition
- Genetics/Genomics Competency Center (G2C2)Exit Disclaimer
- Genetics Toolkit (American Society of Clinical Oncology)
- Genetics Toolkit (Society of Gynecologic Oncology)
- Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention Network (GAPPNet)
- Medical School Core Curriculum in Genetics
- National Genetics and Genomics Education Centre
Professional Organizations: Genetics
Source: National Cancer Institute
- American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC)
- American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG)
- American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG)
- American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG)
- Genetics Society of America (GSA)
- International Society of Nurses in Genetics (ISONG)
- National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC)
Clinical Management Information
Source: National Cancer Institute
- Clinical Practice Guidelines from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG)Exit Disclaimer
- Clinical Practice Guidelines from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)Exit Disclaimer
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) GuidelinesExit Disclaimer
- National Guideline Clearinghouse from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
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