SESSION:2024-2025

BIOLOGY INVESTIGATORY
PROJECT
{Study of Oancer}

Submitted to: Submitted by:

TEACHER NAME STUDENT NAME
Class: XII
Roll No:

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 C E R T IF IC A T E

This is to certify that

JATIN
has successfully completed his/her Biology
project titled
Stuay of Cancer

under the supewision and guidance of

Mr. Ankush Galhotra

in thepartial fulfillment of the Biology
practical
assessment conducted during the
academic year
2024-2025

E XTERNAL T EAC H E R

__________________ __________________

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my immense gratitude to

my biology teacher Mr. Ankush Galhotra for the
help and guidance he provided for completing this
project.

I also thank my parents who gave their ideas and

inputs in making this project. Most of all I thank
our school management, for providing us the
facilities and opportunity to do this project.

Lastly, I would like to thanks my classmates who

have helped me in this project. Their support made
this project fruitful.

Jatin

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 INDEX

CONTENT PAGE NO

What is Cancer? 06

Types of Cancer 07-8

Sign and Symptom 9

Difference between Normal Cells &

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Cancer Cells

Formation of Cancer Cells 11

Main Causes of Cancer 12

Treatment of Cancer 13-14

Cancer Prevention 15

Conclusion 16

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 topic

Study of Cancer

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 What is Cancer?
Cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal
cells anywhere in the body. These abnormal cells, also known as cancer
cells, malignant cells, or tumour cells, can invade and disrupt normal body
tissues. Cancers are often named after the tissue or organ where these
abnormal cells originated, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, or colorectal
cancer. Cancer is not exclusive to humans; animals and other living organisms
can also develop cancer.
The diagram below illustrates the process of normal cell division and what
happens when a cell is damaged or altered without undergoing repair.
Typically, such damaged cells will die. However, if these damaged or
unrepaired cells do not die, they can become cancer cells, leading to
uncontrolled cell division and growth, forming a mass of cancer cells. Cancer
cells can sometimes detach from the original mass, travel through the
bloodstream or lymphatic system, and establish new growths in other parts of
the body. This process is called metastatic spread or metastasis. For instance,
if breast cancer cells spread to the bones, it results in metastatic breast
cancer in the bones, which is distinct from "bone cancer," where the cancer
would have originated in the bone itself.

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 Types of Cancer
1. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer develops in the cells of the breast, most commonly in the ducts or
lobules. It is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, though men
can also develop it. Risk factors include being female, advancing age, a family
history of breast cancer, and genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Hormone replacement therapy and certain lifestyle factors, such as
alcohol consumption and obesity, can also increase the risk.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of self-exams, mammograms (X-ray
of the breast), ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy where a sample of breast tissue is
examined under a microscope.

2. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer begins in the lungs and is strongly associated with smoking,
although non-smokers can also develop the disease. The primary risk factor is
smoking, but other factors include exposure to radon gas, asbestos, air
pollution, and a family history of lung cancer. Those with a history of chronic
lung disease may also be at higher risk.
Diagnosis is usually through imaging tests such as chest X-rays and CT scans,
followed by a biopsy or sputum cytology, where mucus coughed up from the
lungs is examined for cancer cells.

3. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, which is responsible for
producing seminal fluid in men. It is more common in older men, particularly
those over 50, and is more frequently diagnosed in African American men. Risk
factors include age, family history, and diet, particularly diets high in red
meat and dairy products.
Diagnosis is often made using a combination of a digital rectal exam (DRE),
prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and a biopsy, where prostate tissue is
sampled and examined.

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4. Skin Cancer (including Melanoma)
Skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma types, arises from the skin
cells, often due to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun
or tanning beds. Those with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or a family history of
skin cancer are at greater risk. A large number of moles or atypical moles can
also increase the likelihood of developing melanoma.
Diagnosis involves a visual examination of the skin, dermatoscopy (using a
special magnifying tool to examine the skin), and a biopsy where suspicious skin
lesions are removed and examined under a microscope.

5. Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer begins in the cells lining the bladder and is often linked to
smoking and exposure to certain industrial chemicals. Risk factors include
smoking, which is the most significant risk factor, as well as occupational
exposure to substances like arsenic and certain dyes. Chronic bladder
inflammation or infections can also contribute to the risk.
Diagnosis is typically made through urine tests (to detect blood or abnormal
cells), cystoscopy (where a camera is inserted into the bladder), and a biopsy of
bladder tissue. Imaging tests like CT urogram or intravenous pyelogram may
also be used.

6. Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood or bone marrow characterized by the
uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal white blood cells. Risk factors include
previous exposure to radiation or certain chemotherapy treatments, as well
as genetic disorders like Down syndrome. Some types of leukemia are
more common in adults, while others primarily affect children.
Diagnosis is usually through blood tests that show abnormal levels of white blood
cells, red blood cells, or platelets. Bone marrow biopsy is also a key
diagnostic tool, where a sample of bone marrow is extracted and examined.

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 Sign and Svmptom
• Unexplained weight loss, often seen in cancers of the pancreas, stomach, or lungs,
is a sudden and significant loss of weight without effort.

• Persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest can signal various cancers,
including leukaemia or those causing chronic illness.

• Unusual skin changes, such as new growths or changes in moles, can signal skin
cancer or cancers that have spread to the skin.

• Changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as blood in stool or urine, can

indicate cancers like colorectal or bladder cancer.

• A chronic cough or hoarseness that doesn't resolve may suggest lung cancer or
cancers affecting the throat.

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising, like blood in urine or stool, can be signs of

cancers including bladder, kidney, or blood cancers.

• Lumps or thickening in areas such as the breast, testicles, or lymph nodes can
indicate cancers like breast cancer or lymphoma.

• Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of food being stuck can be symptoms of cancers

of the esophagus, throat, or stomach.

• Persistent indigestion, nausea, or discomfort after eating might signal

cancers of the stomach or esophagus.

• Changes in the mouth, like white or red patches or sores that don't heal, can
be signs of oral cancer.

• Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin, can indicate
cancers such as lymphoma or leukaemia.

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 Difference between Normal Cells & Cancer Cells

Normal cells follow a typical cycle: They grow, divide and die. Cancer cells, on the
other hand, don't follow this cycle. Instead of dying, they multiply out of control
and continue to reproduce other abnormal cells. These cells invade body parts, such
as the breast, liver, lungs and pancreas.

Characteristics Normal Cells Cancer Cells

Shape Regular Irregular

Nucleus Proportionate Size Larger, Darker

Growth In Control, Systematic Out of Control

Maturation Mature Immature

Communication Communicates Don't Communicate

Visibility Visible to Immune Cells Invisible to Immune Cells

Oxygen Requires Oxygens Doesn't Require Oxygen

Energy Efficiency Very High (95%) Very Low (5%)

Cell Environment Alkaline Acidic

Nutrient Preference Fat, Ketone, Glucose Glucose

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 Formation of Cancer Cells
Cancer cells form through a multi-step process known as carcinogenesis, which
involves the transformation of normal cells into malignant ones. The process
begins with the initiation stage, where genetic mutations occur within the DNA
of a normal cell. These mutations can be caused by various factors,
including exposure to carcinogens (such as those found in tobacco smoke or
environmental pollutants), radiation (like ultraviolet rays from the sun or
ionizing radiation from medical imaging), or inherited genetic mutations.
Over time, these mutations accumulate, leading to changes in the cell's
behaviour and function. The affected cell may begin to grow and divide
uncontrollably, bypassing the normal regulatory mechanisms that keep cell
growth in check. As the process progresses, the mutated cell can acquire
additional mutations, further enhancing its ability to proliferate and evade the
immune system. This uncontrolled growth eventually leads to the formation of
a tumour, which can invade surrounding tissues and, in some cases, spread to
other parts of the body through a process called metastasis.

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 Main Causes of Cancer
• Genetic Mutations
Cancer often arises due to genetic mutations, which can be inherited or
acquired over a person's lifetime. Inherited mutations, like those in the BRCA1
and BRCA2 genes, increase the risk of certain cancers, while acquired
mutations can result from various environmental and lifestyle factors.

• Lifestyle Factors
Unhealthy lifestyle choices significantly contribute to cancer risk. Smoking is a
leading cause, particularly for lung cancer. Diet and obesity are linked to
cancers such as colorectal and breast cancer, while excessive alcohol
consumption and lack of physical activity also increase the risk of various
cancers.

• Environmental Exposure
Exposure to carcinogens, such as asbestos or certain chemicals, increases
cancer risk. Radiation, both from the sun (ultraviolet radiation) and medical
imaging (ionizing radiation), can also cause cancer, with skin cancer being a
notable example from UV exposure.

• Infections
Certain infections, particularly viral ones, are known to cause cancer. Human
papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to cervical and other cancers, while hepatitis
B and C are major causes of liver cancer. Chronic bacterial infections like
Helicobacter pylori are linked to stomach cancer.

• Immune System Dysfunction

A weakened immune system, whether due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or
immunosuppressive medications, increases the risk of developing cancers such
as lymphoma and skin cancer. The immune system's ability to detect and
destroy cancer cells is compromised, leading to higher cancer susceptibility.

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 Treatment of Cancer
Cancer treatment involves various strategies designed to eliminate cancer
cells, slow their growth, or manage symptoms. The choice of treatment
depends on factors like the type of cancer, its stage, and the patient's overall
health. Common treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy,
chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, stem cell
transplants, and palliative care, each offering different benefits depending on
the specific circumstances of the patient.

 Surgery
Surgery is a common treatment for cancer, especially when the disease is
localized and can be physically removed. The goal of surgery is to excise the
tumour along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancerous
cells are removed. Depending on the size, location, and type of cancer,
different surgical techniques may be employed. For instance, minimally invasive
surgery, such as laparoscopic or robotic surgery, can be used for smaller
tumours and typically involves smaller incisions, leading to quicker
recovery times. In contrast, more extensive surgeries, such as a mastectomy
for breast cancer, may be necessary for larger or more advanced tumours.
Surgery may also be used in combination with other treatments like
chemotherapy or radiation therapy to improve outcomes.

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 Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to target and kill cancer cells
by damaging their DNA, thereby preventing them from growing and dividing.
This treatment can be used as a primary method to shrink tumours or in
conjunction with surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. External
beam radiation is the most common form, where a machine directs radiation
at the cancer from outside the body. Another method, brachytherapy, involves
placing radioactive material inside the body near the tumour, providing a
higher dose of radiation to a more localized area. Radiation therapy is
particularly useful for treating cancers that are difficult to operate on, such as
those located in the brain, or for managing symptoms in advanced cancer cases.

 Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer
cells. It is a systemic treatment, meaning the drugs circulate throughout the body,
making it effective for treating cancers that have spread, or metastasized, to
other parts of the body. Chemotherapy can be administered before surgery to
shrink tumours, making them easier to remove, or after surgery to kill any
remaining cancer cells. However, because chemotherapy also affects
healthy rapidly dividing cells, such as those in the bone marrow, hair follicles,
and digestive tract, it can cause significant side effects, including fatigue,
nausea, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection. Despite these side effects,
chemotherapy remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment.

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 Cancer Prevention

 Avoid Tobacco: Refrain from smoking and avoid second hand smoke to
lower the risk of lung and other cancers.

 Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole
grains; limit processed foods and red meat.

 Regular Exercise: Stay active to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the
risk of cancers like breast and colon cancer.

 Limit Alcohol: Reduce alcohol intake to lower the risk of breast, liver, and
esophageal cancers.

 Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure to prevent
skin cancer.

 Vaccinations: Get vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B to reduce the risk
of cervical and liver cancers.

 Health Screenings: Participate in regular screenings (e.g., mammograms,

colonoscopies) for early detection and prevention.

 Limit Carcinogen Exposure: Minimize exposure to harmful chemicals and

radiation.

 Maintain Healthy Weight: Manage weight through diet and exercise to

reduce the risk of various cancers.

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 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.

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