Cancer and Oncology Research

There are over 200 types of cancers, classified based on where they start in the body and the specific organ or tissue they affect (e.g., ovarian cancer, lung cancer). Types of cancers include carcinoma, sarcoma, leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, brain, and spinal cord cancers. Examples include bladder cancer, rectal cancer, brain cancer, thyroid cancer, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer, Esophageal cancer, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer.

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Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cells within tumors that possess the ability to self-renew and drive tumor growth and metastasis. These cells are thought to be responsible for cancer recurrence and resistance to conventional therapies, as they can evade treatments that target rapidly dividing cells. Understanding the biology of CSCs is crucial for developing more effective, targeted therapies aimed at eradicating these cells and improving patient outcomes in cancer treatment.

Cancer Epidemiology is the study of distribution, determinants, and frequency of malignant diseases in specific populations. The main objective is to define the factors causing cancer and preventive strategies to control the disease.

Cancer Biomarkers are found in the body in which the area is affected with cancer. A cancer biomarker refers to a substance or process that represents the presence of cancer in the body. Biomarkers are the molecules that may be secreted by an infected cell or specific response of the body which represents cancer.

Cancer immunotherapy is a type of treatment that stimulates the body's immune system to fight cancer. The immune system plays a crucial role in recognizing and eliminating abnormal cells, including cancer cells. However, cancer cells can sometimes evade detection by the immune system or suppress its activity. Immunotherapy aims to overcome these obstacles and enhance the body's natural ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

Certain infections can lead to cancer by causing chronic inflammation, immune suppression, or directly altering cell genetics. Viruses like HPV and Hepatitis B and C are linked to cervical and liver cancers, respectively, while Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and HIV increase the risk of lymphomas. Helicobacter pylori bacteria can contribute to gastric cancer, and parasites like Schistosoma haematobium are associated with bladder cancer. Vaccinations, treating infections, and regular screenings are essential strategies to help prevent cancers caused by these infectious agents.

Cancer nanotechnology is a part of nanotechnology which deals with various techniques, equipment’s also known as Nanomaterials to the analysis and treatment of cancer. It is the branch of nanotechnology that uses Nanoscience and Nano vectors to cure or stop cancer cells and their growth.

Cancer prevention is any action taken to minimize the chance of developing cancer. This can include leading a healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to known cancer-causing substances, and using cancer-prevention medications or vaccines.

Cancer Metastasis is the process by which a tumor cell leaves the primary tumor, moves to a distant site through a circulatory system and produces a second tumor. Three major steps are in cancer metastasis they are invasion, circulation, colonization.

Cancer genetics and epigenetics study how genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications drive cancer. Genetic changes, like mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, alter cell behavior, leading to uncontrolled growth. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone changes, affect gene expression without altering DNA sequences, potentially silencing tumor-suppressing genes or activating oncogenes. Together, these insights help identify biomarkers for early detection and personalized treatments, with therapies now targeting both genetic mutations and epigenetic changes to improve cancer outcomes.

Cancer diagnosis and staging involve a systematic process to identify the presence of cancer and determine its extent in the body. Diagnosis typically includes imaging tests, biopsies, and blood tests to confirm cancer and assess its type. Staging, often classified using the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis), evaluates the size of the tumor, lymph node involvement, and spread to other organs. Accurate diagnosis and staging are crucial for developing an effective treatment plan and predicting patient outcomes.

Radiation has been an effective tool for treating cancer for more than 100 years. 60% of the patients diagnosed with cancer will receive radiation therapy as a part of their treatment. Radiation oncology is the specialty of medicine that uses radiation energy for treating usually malignant disease and occasionally benign disease. Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA within the cancer cells and destroying their ability to reproduce.

The study of cancer, which relates to the central nervous system, includes Brain and Spinal Card neoplasms and Brain Stem Tumors such as Malignant Brain Cancers, etc. Cancers in the nervous system may occur as primary tumors, secondary tumors or metastatic tumors that occur due to cancer that has spread from another region of the body.

Thoracic oncology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers in the chest region, primarily lung cancer, but also includes tumors of the pleura, mediastinum, and chest wall. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and is often categorized into non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Risk factors include smoking, environmental exposures, and genetic predispositions. Advances in imaging, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy are enhancing early detection and treatment outcomes in thoracic oncology.

Psychosocial oncology focuses on the emotional, psychological, and social challenges faced by individuals affected by cancer. It addresses mental health, coping strategies, and support needs of patients and families, aiming to improve quality of life and overall well-being throughout the cancer journey.

Tumor markers and signatures are molecules that help detect, monitor, and classify cancers. They include proteins, genes, or other patterns unique to certain cancers, like PSA in prostate cancer or HER2 in breast cancer. These biomarkers guide diagnosis and personalized treatment, enhancing precision in cancer care.

Hematologic malignancies are cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system, including leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. They disrupt normal blood cell production and function, leading to symptoms like fatigue and increased infections. Treatment options include chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and stem cell transplantation.

Translational oncology bridges the gap between laboratory research and clinical practice, focusing on translating scientific discoveries into effective cancer treatments. This field emphasizes the application of genetic, molecular, and cellular findings to develop new diagnostic tools, therapies, and personalized medicine approaches. By integrating research with patient care, translational oncology aims to improve treatment outcomes and enhance the understanding of cancer biology.