Overview
Cancer Development
Cancer can develop when there are errors in the cell cycle. Some factors that can contribute to the development of cancer are age, genetic make-up, and lifestyle. Cancer cells have gene mutations that are inherited or developed as genes wear out or are influenced by carcinogens like UV radiation or cigarette smoke. When one cell mutates into a cancer cell, the mutations causes the cell to grow and replicate out of control, and the cancer cells can enter the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body. |
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Cancer Cells vs Normal Cells |
Normal Cell
Normal cells have a regular shape and a single nucleus. In clusters, their shape and size are uniform, and they are clearly organized. |
Cancer Cell
Cancer cells are irregular in shape and may have multiple nuclei. In tumors, their shape and size vary and the tumor boundary is poorly defined. |
How They Grow
Normal cells grow systemically, undergoing cell division as well as cell differentiation. Cancer cells, however, do not undergo cell differentiation, so they do not mature. Cancer cells also do not undergo apoptosis, or cell death, so they grow out of control. |