Comprehensive Biology Project

on Cancer
 Certificate
THIS IS CERTIFY THAT YATIN-MRITYUNJAY S

THASMA OF CLASS XII OF SRI CHAITANYA JUNIOR

COLLEGE HAS SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED HIS

PROJECT ON “COMPREHENSIVE BIOLOGY

PROJECT ON CANCER” UNDER MY SUPERVISION.

HE HAS TAKEN PROPER CARE AND UTMOST

SINCERITY IN COMPLETION OF THIS PROJECT.

I CERTIFY THAT THIS PROJECT IS UPTO MY

EXPECTATION AND AS PER GUIDELINES ISSUED BY

CBSE.

APPROVED BY: MR. NAAGENDRA RAO

PERMITTED BY: DR. VENKATESWARA RAO

INTERNAL SIGNATURE EXTERNAL SIGNATURE

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I am extremely thankful to my teacher

Mr. Naagendra Rao, for the constant support,
motivation and insights provided throughout
the project “COMPREHENSIVE BIOLOGY
PROJECT ON CANCER”.
I sincerely appreciate our
Principal, Dr. Venkateswara Rao, for permitting
access to the well-equipped lab and the
resources for the project.
The encouragement from my teacher and
principal was Invaluable. I will always remain
grateful for their support.

Name: Yatin-Mrityunjay S Thasma

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction:............................................................................................................

Types of Cancer.......................................................................................................

Global Impact Of Cancer........................................................................................

Symptoms of Cancer...............................................................................................

Diagnosis of Cancer................................................................................................

Risk Factors of Cancer..........................................................................................

Cancer Stages........................................................................................................

Treatment of Cancer.............................................................................................

Advancement in Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis:........................................

Conclusion..............................................................................................................

BIBILIOGRAPHY:....................................................................................................

Introduction:

India witnesses approximately 1,200,000 new cancer cases each year.

According to the latest data from the National Cancer Registry, 1 in 8 men
and 1 in 9 women in India are projected to develop some form of cancer
during their lifetime.

The incidence and types of cancer that are diagnosed are influenced by a
multitude of factors, including age, gender, ethnicity, local environmental
conditions, dietary habits, and genetic predisposition. Among males in
India, lung cancer holds the highest incidence, followed by oral cavity
and throat cancers. Among females, cervical cancer and breast
cancer are the most commonly diagnosed forms.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a condition characterised by the abnormal behaviour of certain

cells within the body. In a healthy person, cells follow a specific pattern of
growth, division, and eventually, natural death, which is essential to
maintain proper bodily function. However, in the case of cancer, these
cells deviate from this normal behaviour, undergoing uncontrollable and
abnormal growth.

Difference Between Cancer Cells and Normal Cells

Characteristic Normal Cells Cancer Cells
Grow uncontrollably, ignoring
Growth Follow a controlled pattern
signals
Interact effectively with Fail to respond to signals, act
Communication
other cells isolated
Cell Repair and Undergo self-repair or Do not engage in self-repair
Death apoptosis or apoptosis.
Lack adhesive properties, can
Attachment Secrete adhesive substances
detach
 Uniform size, orderly Heterogeneous in size,
Appearance
appearance significant variation
Remain undifferentiated due
Maturation Undergo maturation process
to rapid growth

Types of Cancer

Carcinoma Brain and Spinal Cord Tumours

Melanoma Leukaemia
Germ Cell Tumours Lymphoma
Neuroendocrine Tumours Multiple Myeloma
Carcinoid Tumours Sarcomas

Global Impact Of Cancer

Prevalence and Mortality

 According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is responsible

for nearly 10 million deaths annually, accounting for approximately one in
six deaths worldwide.
 The most common cancers globally include lung, breast, colorectal,
prostate, stomach, and liver cancers.
 Incidence rates are rising due to factors such as aging populations,
urbanization, and lifestyle changes, including unhealthy diets, tobacco
use, and physical inactivity.

Economic Burden

 The global economic cost of cancer is estimated to be over $1.16 trillion

annually, including healthcare costs, lost productivity, and the financial
toll on families.
 Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) face the greatest financial
strain due to limited healthcare infrastructure and resources for early
detection and treatment.

Social and Emotional Impact

 Cancer affects patients’ quality of life, causing physical, emotional, and
psychological distress. Families often experience significant caregiving
burdens, loss of income, and emotional strain.

Tobacco and Lifestyle Contributions

 Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of cancer, responsible for

approximately 22% of global cancer deaths.
 Unhealthy diets, obesity, lack of physical activity, and alcohol
consumption also contribute to rising cancer rates.

Global Response

 Organizations like the WHO, the Union for International Cancer Control
(UICC), and regional cancer agencies are working to reduce the cancer
burden.
 World Cancer Day (February 4th) aims to increase awareness and
promote actions to prevent and manage cancer.
 The UN's Sustainable Development Goal 3.4 aims to reduce premature
mortality from non-communicable diseases, including cancer, by one-third
by 2030.

Future Challenges

 The global cancer burden is projected to grow, with new cases expected
to rise by nearly 50% by 2040 due to population growth and aging.
 Addressing cancer effectively will require coordinated global efforts in
prevention, early detection, access to treatment, and research into new
therapies.

Symptoms of Cancer
Changes in Bowel or Bladder Non-Healing Sores
Habits
Thickening or Lump Wart or Mole Changes
Fatigue or Unexplained Weight Fluctuations
Swelling
Skin Changes Persistent Indigestion After
Eating
Unexplained Persistent Fever Unexplained Persistent Muscle
or Night Sweats or Joint Pain

Diagnosis of Cancer

Various methods and techniques are employed to identify the presence of

cancer cells and tumours in the human body.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a medical procedure where a sample of tissue is collected from

the suspicious area and examined under a
microscope. Pathologists analyse the tissue sample to check for the
presence of cancer cells, helping to confirm the diagnosis.

Histopathological Studies of Tissue

Histopathological studies involve the microscopic analysis of tissue

samples. Pathologists study these samples to detect abnormal cellular
changes that are indicative of cancer. This technique is crucial for
understanding the characteristics of cancerous tissues.

Radiography Techniques

Radiography techniques, such as X-rays, are often used to capture images

of affected areas in the body. These images help in the identification of
abnormalities, including tumours or irregular masses that might be
indicative of cancer.

Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed Tomography, commonly known as CT or CAT scans, provides

detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It aids in the detection and
localization of cancerous growths. CT scans are particularly valuable for
visualising solid organs and bones.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is another imaging technique that provides high-resolution
images for the assessment of cancer, especially in soft tissues. It
offers excellent contrast and is highly effective in identifying
abnormalities in various parts of the body.

Molecular Biology Techniques

Advanced molecular biology techniques have revolutionised cancer

detection. These methods involve the analysis of genetic and molecular
markers to identify cancer-related mutations and abnormalities. By
 studying the DNA and RNA of cells, scientists can pinpoint specific genetic
changes associated with different types of cancer.

Risk Factors of Cancer

Tobacco Use High Alcohol Consumption

Lack of Physical Activity Exposure to Air Pollution
Exposure to Radiation Unprotected Exposure to UV
Light

Cancer Stages

Cancer staging systems play a pivotal role in guiding healthcare providers

as they chart a course of treatment and offer patients a prognosis, or an
anticipated outcome. Among the various staging systems, the TNM
classification is the most widely employed.

Most cancer types are categorised into four primary stages. The specific
stage assigned to a patient depends on several factors, including the
tumour's size and its location within the body:

 Stage I: At this stage, cancer is confined to a small, localised area,

without any evidence of spreading to nearby lymph nodes or other
tissues.
 Stage II: Cancer has experienced some growth, but it still remains
localised and hasn't extended to other areas of the body.
 Stage III: Cancer has grown larger, possibly involving nearby lymph
nodes or adjacent tissues.
 Stage IV: This advanced stage indicates that cancer has spread to other
organs or distant areas of the body, a condition often termed metastatic
cancer.

In addition to these four primary stages, there's also Stage 0, which

characterises the earliest phase of cancer. In Stage 0, the cancer is
restricted to the site where it originated, making it highly treatable. Many
practitioners categorise Stage 0 cancers as precancerous, indicating their
potential to progress if not addressed.

Treatment of Cancer

Cancer treatment is a collaborative effort that involves various

approaches, each tailored to address specific aspects of the disease. In
this comprehensive guide, we will explore the primary methods of cancer
treatment, their objectives, and how they contribute to the well-being of
cancer patients.
Primary Treatment

The primary objective of cancer treatment is to completely eradicate

cancer from the body or destroy all cancer cells. While various treatment
options can serve as primary treatments, the most common approach for
the most prevalent types of cancer is surgery.

Adjuvant Treatment

Adjuvant therapy focuses on eliminating any residual cancer cells after

primary treatment to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Palliative Care

Palliative care treatments are designed to alleviate side effects resulting

from treatment or symptoms caused by cancer itself. They encompass a
range of interventions, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy
procedure, and hormone therapy, which can provide relief from pain and
discomfort.

Surgery

The primary goal of surgery is the complete removal of malignant tissue,

whenever possible.
Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy employs drugs to target and eliminate cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays, such as X-rays or protons, to

obliterate cancer cells.

Bone Marrow Transplant

A bone marrow transplant, also known as a stem cell transplant, involves

using either the patient's own bone marrow stem cells or those from a
donor to restore healthy blood cell production.

Immunotherapy Procedure

Immunotherapy, a biological treatment, leverages the body's immune

system to combat cancer. It addresses the challenge where the immune
system fails to recognize cancer as a threat, allowing it to proliferate
unchecked.

Hormone Therapy

Certain cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer, are influenced by

hormones. Hormone therapy works by removing these hormones from the
body or blocking their effects, thereby halting the growth of cancer cells.

Targeted Drugs

Targeted drug therapy focuses on specific abnormalities within cancer

cells to inhibit their growth.

Cryoablation

Cryoablation is a treatment that uses cold temperatures to destroy

cancer cells. A cryoprobe, a thin needle, is inserted directly into the
cancerous tumour. It's filled with gas to freeze the tissue, which is then
thawed and repeated multiple times in the same session to effectively
eliminate cancer cells.

Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation uses electrical energy to heat and destroy cancer
cells. A doctor inserts a thin needle through the skin or an incision in the
cancerous tissue, and radiofrequency energy is applied to the needle to
heat the tissue, causing the cells to die.

Advancement in Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis:

CRISPR
Revolutionizing gene editing, Researchers never imagined being able to
quickly and easily change the genetic code of living cells. But now that’s
possible with CRISPR, which works like a pair of scissors that can precisely
delete, insert, or edit specific bits of DNA inside cells. The discovery of this
revolutionary gene-editing tool emerged from a side project fuelled by
curiosity about how bacteria fight viruses.

Artificial Intelligence
Computer programming used to improve cancer diagnosis, drug
development, and precision medicine
AI involves programming a computer to act, reason, and learn. It’s great
at finding patterns in large amounts of data, which is particularly helpful in
scientific research. Other usage of it to analyse imaging data and
electronic health records to tailor patients’ radiation doses. AI is even
being harnessed to quickly analyze population-based cancer data and
estimate the probability of certain cancers. And these examples just
scratch the surface—AI has the potential to truly transform cancer care.

Telehealth
Bringing cancer care, treatment to the patient. Providing cancer care and
running clinical trials are necessities, even during a pandemic. Many
health care organizations participating in the Community Oncology
Research Program (NCORP) successfully incorporated or expanded
telehealth practices to provide patients’ cancer treatment and care
remotely. These hospitals and clinics are maximizing safety and
convenience for both patients and providers across the country by using
telehealth for remote health monitoring, video visits, and even in-home
chemotherapy. Telehealth also makes access to clinical trials and cancer
care easier for more diverse groups of patients across wider geographical
areas. Outside of cancer care, you might’ve taken advantage of telehealth
practices and contributed to the nearly one-third of health visits
performed virtually last year. Despite its growing popularity, not all care
can be performed remotely. Ensuring that remote health care technology
is used equitably comes with challenges, but researchers are working to
address them.

Cryo-EM
Generating high-resolution images of how molecules behave to help
inform cancer treatment. Cryo-EM captures images of molecules that are
ten-thousandths the width of a human hair, at resolutions so high they
were unheard of just a decade ago. Like sorting through multiple candid
photos before posting the “good” ones on social media, researchers
analyze hundreds of thousands of cryo-EM images for quality,
reconstructing 3-D images of molecules that allow scientists to study how
they behave. For cancer, this means better understanding how cancer cells
survive, grow, and interact with therapies and other cells.

Robotic Surgery
Using robotic arms to perform precise, minimally invasive surgeries
to remove cancer. A speedier recovery and quicker return to normal life—
that’s what robotic surgery can make possible. A surgeon controls the
arms using a special console that also provides a real-time, magnified view
of the surgical site. Robotic surgery involves less blood loss and pain,
a patient could leave the hospital as soon as the day after surgery.

Conclusion
Cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges worldwide,
affecting millions of people each year. Through this investigatory project,
we have explored the fundamental aspects of cancer, including its
definition, types, causes, symptoms, and the differences between normal
and cancerous cells. We also examined the various treatments available
and emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention
strategies.
Understanding cancer at a cellular level reveals the complexity of this
disease and underscores the need for ongoing research and education.
The project has highlighted how lifestyle choices, genetic factors, and
environmental exposures contribute to the development of cancer,
making prevention efforts crucial in reducing the incidence of this disease.
BIBILIOGRAPHY:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/diagnosis-
treatment/drc-
20370594
2. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/what-is-cancer
3. https://ebismedical.com/cancer-treatments/
4. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12194-cancer
BIBILIOGRAPHY:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/diagnosis-
treatment/drc-
20370594
2. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/what-is-cancer
3. https://ebismedical.com/cancer-treatments/
4. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12194-cancer
 BIBILIOGRAPHY:

Parts of the project have been referred from foreign sources and have
been included in this project after editing.

Reference of sources is as follows:

Books:
Biology NCERT book Class 12
National Geographic Magazine

Internet Resources:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/diagnosis-

treatment/drc-20370594

2. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/what-is-cancer

3. https://ebismedical.com/cancer-treatments/

4. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12194-cancer

5. https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/nca50/stories/technologies-and-

innovations

6. https://www.rgcirc.org/blog/know-about-latest-advances-in-cancer-

treatment/

7. https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/introduction-to-cancer