How do cancers start?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dr Khaleel Ur Rahim

General Practitioner

MBBS
1+ Yrs

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Cancer develops when the body's normal control mechanism stops working. Old cells do not die and instead grow out of control, forming new, abnormal cells.

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Answered 04/07/2025

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What is Cancer?
- Cancer is a disease where cells grow uncontrollably, forming tumors or spreading through the body.
How Normal Cells Work
- Normal cells grow, divide, and die in a regulated manner, maintaining healthy tissue function.
What Goes Wrong in Cancer
- DNA changes can disrupt normal cell regulation, leading to uncontrolled growth and tumor formation.
Causes of These Changes
- Factors like smoking, radiation, infections, and genetic mutations can damage DNA, increasing cancer risk.
Development Process
- Cancer typically develops over time, requiring multiple genetic changes before becoming detectable.
Importance of Early Detection
- Understanding cancer's origins aids in early diagnosis and treatment, improving outcomes.
When to Consult a Specialist
- See an oncologist if you have symptoms or risk factors for cancer for timely evaluation and management.

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