CARCINOGENESIS Meaning and
Definition
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Carcinogenesis is the biological process that involves the formation and development of cancer within living organisms. It refers to the series of events that lead to the initiation, promotion, and progression of cancer cells, ultimately resulting in the growth and spread of malignant tumors.
During carcinogenesis, normal cells undergo genetic alterations or mutations that disrupt their normal growth and division, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation. These mutations can occur due to various factors such as exposure to certain carcinogens (chemical, physical, or biological agents that can cause cancer), genetic predisposition, or a combination of both.
The process of carcinogenesis generally consists of three major stages: initiation, promotion, and progression. Initiation involves the initial genetic damage or mutation of a normal cell, which can be caused by exposure to a carcinogen. Promotion refers to the growth and expansion of the mutated cells, as well as the promotion of their survival and evasion of normal cell growth-control mechanisms. Finally, progression involves the development of more aggressive and invasive cancer cells, leading to the formation of tumors and metastasis.
Understanding the process of carcinogenesis is crucial for the development of effective strategies for cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. Researchers and medical professionals study the mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis to identify potential risk factors, develop targeted therapies, and improve screening and diagnostic techniques, with the ultimate goal of reducing cancer incidence and improving patient outcomes.
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The origin or production of cancer.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Etymology of CARCINOGENESIS
The word "carcinogenesis" has roots in ancient Greek. It is made up of two Greek terms: "karkinos" meaning "crab" and "genesis" meaning "origin" or "creation". The Greek physician Hippocrates, often referred to as the father of medicine, described certain tumors resembling crab-like structures. These growths reminded him of the shape and movement of a crab, hence the term "karkinos" became associated with cancer. The suffix "-genesis" denotes the process of creating or generating, thereby giving the complete term "carcinogenesis" the meaning of the process of cancer formation or development.
Similar spelling words for CARCINOGENESIS
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