Cancer Higher Human Biology Unit 1 – Section 1 (e)

Learning Outcomes o Cancer cells divide excessively to produce a mass of abnormal cells (a tumour) that do not respond to regulatory signals and may fail to attach to each other. o If the cancer cells fail to attach to each other they can spread through the body to form secondary tumours.

Cancer cells Cancer cells have many characteristics that make them different from normal cells: Cancer cells continue to reproduce to produce a mass of abnormal cells (a benign tumour). They do not respond to normal regulatory signals that would instruct them to stop dividing when necessary. They lose the molecules on their surface that would normally hold them in place and can therefore be detached from their neighbours, causing the cells to spread (malignant tumour). Skin cancer cells (melanoma)

HPV Certain strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV) have been shown to cause cervical cancer. The routine immunisation programme in Scotland is for girls aged 12 and 13 (S2). There is also a one-off, three-year catch-up programme for older girls.

Your task Produce an information leaflet designed to answer the questions of a patient recently diagnosed with cancer. Points to consider: How are cancer cells different from other cells? What is a tumour? How will I know if my cancer has spread? What is the difference between a malignant tumour and a benign tumour? How will my cancer be treated?

Bang Goes the Theory

Questions 1.Identify two characteristics of cancer cells.

Answers 1.Their division is uncontrolled and they do not respond to the usual regulatory signals.