

Cancer Growth and Metastasis


DNA exists in the individual genes of every cell. It has instructions that tell the cell what functions to perform and how to grow and divide. Mutations occur frequently in DNA, but usually cells correct these mistakes. When a mistake is not corrected, a cell can become cancerous.

Mutations can cause cells that should be replaced to survive instead of die, and new cells to form when they’re not needed. These extra cells can divide uncontrollably, causing growths called tumors to form. Tumors can cause a variety of health problems, depending on where they grow in the body.

But not all tumors are cancerous. Benign tumors are noncancerous and do not spread to nearby tissues. Sometimes, they can grow large and cause problems when they press against neighboring organs and tissue. Malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade other parts of the body.

Some cancer cells can also migrate through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to distant areas of the body. This process is called metastasis. Cancers that have metastasized are considered more advanced than those that have not. Metastatic cancers tend to be harder to treat and more fatal.

Types of Cancer

Cancers are named for the area in which they begin and the type of cell they are made of, even if they spread to other parts of the body. For example, a cancer that begins in the lungs and spreads to the liver is still called lung cancer. There are also several clinical terms used for certain general types of cancer:

  • Lymphoma and myeloma are cancers of the immune system.

Risk Factors and Treatment


  • exposure to cancer-causing chemicals, called carcinogens
  • exposure to radiation
  • unprotected exposure to the sun
  • certain viruses, such as human papilloma virus (HPV)
  • smoking



  • Stop using tobacco and avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Limit your intake of processed meats.
  • Stay protected from the sun.
  • Cover up with clothing, sunglasses, and a hat, and apply sunscreen frequently.
  • Stay in the shade as much as possible when you’re outside.
  • Avoid tanning beds and sunlight, which can damage your skin just as much as the sun.
  • Don’t engage in risky behaviors. Practice safe sex and don’t share needles when using drugs or prescription medications. Only get tattoos at licensed parlors.


Cancer treatment has different objectives, depending on the type of cancer and how advanced it is. These objectives include:

  • Finding a cure: This is not possible for all cancers and situations.
  • Providing primary treatment: Killing the cancer cells in your body.
  • Providing adjuvant treatment: Killing cancer cells that remain after primary treatment to reduce your risk of the cancer coming back.
  • Providing palliative treatment: Relieving health symptoms associated with cancer, such as trouble breathing and pain.

The most common types of treatment are:


Surgically removes as much of the cancer as possible.



Radiation Therapy


Stem Cell (Bone Marrow) Transplant


Immunotherapy (Biological Therapy)


Hormone Therapy


Targeted Drug Therapy


Clinical Trials

Investigates new ways to treat cancer.

Alternative Medicine


  • acupuncture
  • hypnosis
  • massage
  • yoga
  • meditation
  • relaxation techniques