Biology project

Session- 2025-26

Subject: cancer, its

causes and its types

By- Mahek Navadiya

Class- XIth science
 Certificate

This is to certify that this project on biology

submitted by Mahek Navadiya of class XI-
science, has successfully been completed under
the guidance of Mrs. Sabita Sharma (subject
teacher) as concluded by TM PATEL
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, during the year
2025-26

Principal

Teacher incharge external examiner

 Acknowledgement

I have taken efforts in this project, however, it

would not have been possible without the kind
support and help of many individuals. I would like
to thank my principal, K. Maxwell Manohar sir, and
the school for providing me with the facilities
required to do my project. I am highly indebted to
my biology teacher, Mrs. Sabita Sharma. I would
like to thank my parents for their continuous
support and encouragement. My thanks and
appreciation also go to the laboratory assistant for
developing the project and to the people who
willingly helped me with their abilities.
 Index
Subject
certificate
Acknowledgement
Index
Objective
Abstract
What is cancer?
Types of cancer
Causes and risk factors
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment of cancer
Prevention of cancer
Living with cancer
Bibliography. ​
 Objective

Understanding how cancer develops, finding

ways to detect it early, and creating better
treatments to improve survival and quality of life.
It also aims to prevent cancer by studying risk
factors like genes, lifestyle and environment.
 Abstract

Cancer is a group of diseases caused by the uncontrolled

division of abnormal cells. This project explores the basic
biology of cancer, how it develops, and its impact on the
human body.

It focuses on the importance of early detection, prevention

and recent advancements in treatment such as targeted
therapy and immunotherapy. The aim is to raise
awareness about cancer, its causes and how ongoing
research is helping improve survival and quality of life for
patients.

Through this project, we also highlight the need for

continued scientific research to reduce the global burden
of cancer.
It is a serious disease caused by the uncontrolled growth
and division of abnormal cells in the body,
Unlike normal cells in the body, cancer cells do not stop
dividing and can form tumours, which may spread to
other body parts.

The project also discusses the different types of tumours,

common symptoms, methods of prevention, and modern
treatments.
 What is Cancer?
Cancer is a disease that happens when certain cells in the
body begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way.
Normally, our body’s cells follow a natural life cycle: they
grow, do their job, and then die when they are old or
damaged. This process is tightly controlled to keep the
body healthy. But when a cell becomes cancerous, it stops
following these rules. Instead of dying like normal cells,
cancer cells continue to grow and multiply without
stopping. Over time, they can build up and form a lump or
mass called a tumour.

Not all tumours are dangerous. Some are called benign

tumours, which means they stay in one place and do not
spread. These tumours are usually not life-threatening and
can often be removed through surgery. But other tumours
are malignant, meaning they are cancerous. Malignant
tumours can invade nearby tissues and spread to other
parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system.
This process of spreading is called metastasis, and it
makes cancer more dangerous and harder to treat.
Cancer begins when the DNA inside a cell gets damaged
or changed. DNA is like an instruction manual for
cells—it tells them how to grow, divide, and die. When
something damages this DNA, such as smoking,
radiation, certain infections, or even inherited genetic
changes, the cell may start acting abnormally. At first,
these changes may not be harmful. But over time, if the
damage builds up, the cell can become cancerous and
grow out of control.

What makes cancer cells especially harmful is that they

don’t stop growing when the body tells them to. They also
don’t die when they should. Instead, they keep making
more abnormal cells. These cells can form tumours,
damage healthy organs, and prevent the body from
working properly. If the cancer spreads to important
organs like the lungs, liver, or brain, it can interfere with
essential life functions and become life-threatening.

To understand cancer more easily, imagine your body as a

well-maintained garden. Each cell is like a plant.
Normally, plants grow in the right place and are trimmed
when needed. But if one plant goes wild and grows too
fast, it can take over the garden, harm nearby plants, and
spread everywhere. That out-of-control plant is like a
cancer cell—it doesn’t follow the rules and causes
problems for the whole system.

Cancer can take years to develop, which is why it is more

common in older people. But it can also occur in younger
individuals if the risk factors are present or if the genetic
mutations happen earlier. Scientists and doctors continue
to research how to better understand cancer so they can
improve prevention, early detection, and treatment.
 Types of cancer.

Cancer can affect almost any part of the body usually

named based on where it starts. Here are major and types:

Carcinoma:
the most common type of cancer. It starts in the cells that
cover the inside or outside of organs,like the skin, lungs,
or digestive system. Carcinomas often form solid tumours
and may spread to other parts of the body.

Example: breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer,

prostate cancer.

Sarcoma:
sarcoma begins in the body’s connective or supportive
tissue, such as bones, muscles, fat, cartilage, and blood
vessels. These cancers are rarer but can grow quickly and
spread.

Example: osteosarcoma (bone), liposarcoma (fat tissue),

Leiomyosarcoma (muscle).
Leukemia:​
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood or bone marrow. It
doesn’t form solid tumours. Instead, it causes the body to
make large numbers of abnormal white blood cells, which
crowd out healthy blood cells. This weakens the immune
system and affects blood function.

Types: acute (fast growing) and chronic (slow growing)

Myeloma:
Also called multiple myeloma, this cancer begins in
plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that makes
antibodies. It affects bone marrow and weakens the
immune system. People with myeloma may have bone
pain, frequent infections and fatigue.

Brain and spinal cord cancers:

These cancers begin in the central nervous system. They
can be benign or malignant, but even benign tumours can
be dangerous because of pressure on the brain.

Examples: gliomas, astrocytomas, medulloblastomas.

Causes and risk factors
Cancer is usually created by changes in the DNA
of a cell. These mutations can be caused by
various internal or external factors:

1.​ Genetic mutations: inherited or caused by

harmful exposures.
2.​ Tobacco use: smoking or chewing tobacco
increases cancer risk.
3.​ Alcohol: drinking too much can cause liver,
breast, and other cancers.
4.​Radiation: UV rays from the sun and the
x-rays can damage cells.
5.​ Infections: viruses like HPV and hepatitis B/C
can cause cancer.
6.​ Unhealthy lifestyle: poor diet, lack of
exercise, and obesity raise the risk
7.​ Pollution and chemicals: exposure to
harmful substances can trigger cancer.
8.​ Family history: having relatives with cancer
can increase your chances.
 Signs and symptoms.
Cancer can cause different symptoms based on
where it begins and how advanced it is. Some
general warning signs include:

1.​Unusual lumps or swelling​

A new lump or thickening in any part of the
body, especially the breast, neck, or
underarm, may be a sign of a tumor.
2.​Unexplained weight loss​
Losing weight without trying, especially more
than 5 kg, could be an early sign of cancer.
3.​Constant tiredness or weakness​
Feeling extremely weak or tired all the time,
even after rest, can be caused by cancer
affecting blood or energy levels.
4.​Long-lasting pain​
Pain that doesn’t go away or keeps getting
worse could be a sign, especially if it's in the
bones, head, or abdomen.
5.​Changes in the skin​
Unusual moles, new growths, or changes in
 color, size, or shape of existing moles may be
signs of skin cancer.
6.​Changes in bowel or bladder habits​
Frequent diarrhea, constipation, or changes in
urination patterns could point to cancers of
the digestive or urinary systems.
7.​Bleeding or discharge that doesn’t stop​
Unusual bleeding, such as between periods, in
urine, or coughing up blood, should never be
ignored.
8.​Difficulty swallowing or a persistent cough​
Ongoing throat irritation, hoarseness, or a
cough that won’t go away could be linked to
lung or throat cancer.
 Diagnosis
Diagnosing cancer involves several tests and
procedures that help doctors confirm the
presence of cancer, determine its type, and find
out how much it has spread. Early detection plays
a big role in successful treatment.

1. Physical Examination
Doctors begin by checking the body for any visible
or felt signs like lumps, unusual swelling, skin
changes, or pain. They may also ask about your
symptoms, medical history, and any family history
of cancer.

2. Blood Tests
Certain cancers release substances called tumor
markers into the blood. For example, PSA
(Prostate-Specific Antigen) for prostate cancer, or
CA-125 for ovarian cancer. Blood tests also help
check how well organs like the liver, kidneys, or
bone marrow are working.

3. Imaging Tests
Imaging tests help create pictures of the inside of
the body. Common ones include:

●​X-rays – show abnormal masses.

●​Ultrasound – uses sound waves to see organs
or soft tissues.
●​CT (Computed Tomography) scans – give
detailed 3D images.
●​MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – uses
magnets and radio waves to show soft tissue
clearly.

These help find tumors, see their size, and detect

spreading.

4. Biopsy
A biopsy is when a small sample of tissue is taken
from a suspicious area and looked at under a
microscope. It is the only test that can confirm
if the cells are cancerous. The biopsy can be
done using a needle, surgery, or an endoscope.

5. Endoscopy
An endoscope is a thin tube with a camera that’s
inserted into the body through the mouth or
rectum. It helps doctors see inside organs like the
lungs, stomach, or colon, and collect tissue if
needed. This test is helpful for detecting cancers
of the digestive or respiratory systems.

6. Cancer Staging
Once cancer is confirmed, it is assigned a stage
from 0 to 4 based on its size and how far it has
spread:

●​Stage 0 – very early, limited to one layer of

cells.
●​Stage 1 – small tumor, hasn't spread.
 ●​Stage 2–3 – larger tumor, may have spread to
nearby lymph nodes.
●​Stage 4 – cancer has spread (metastasized) to
other organs.

Staging helps plan the right treatment.

7. Genetic Testing
This test checks for inherited gene changes that
increase the risk of certain cancers, like BRCA1
and BRCA2 for breast and ovarian cancer. It is
helpful for people with a strong family history of
cancer and helps doctors choose targeted
treatments.

8. PET Scan (Positron Emission

Tomography)
A PET scan uses a small amount of radioactive
material to show how active cancer cells are in the
body. It helps detect cancer spread and monitor
how well treatment is working.

9. Tumor Grading
Tumors are also graded based on how abnormal
the cancer cells look under a microscope:

●​Low-grade tumors look more like normal

cells and grow slowly.
●​High-grade tumors look very different and
tend to grow and spread quickly.
●​Grading helps predict how aggressive the
cancer is
 Treatment of cancer
Cancer treatment depends on the type, stage,
and location of cancer, as well as the patient’s
age and overall health. Doctors may use one or a
combination of the following treatments:

1. Surgery
Surgery is used to remove the cancerous tumor
and some surrounding healthy tissue. It’s most
effective when cancer is in one place and hasn’t
spread. In some cases, surgery can completely
cure the cancer.

2. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill or stop
the growth of cancer cells. It can be given through
pills or injections. Chemo is used to treat cancer
that has spread, shrink tumors before surgery, or
prevent cancer from coming back. It may cause
side effects like hair loss, nausea, or fatigue.

3. Radiation Therapy
This treatment uses high-energy rays (like X-rays)
to destroy cancer cells. It can be targeted at
specific parts of the body. Radiation may be used
before or after surgery, or as the main treatment
in cancers like cervical or throat cancer.

4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy boosts the body's own immune
system to fight cancer. It uses drugs that help the
immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
This is helpful in cancers like melanoma and lung
cancer. Some side effects include fatigue, fever,
and inflammation.
5. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically
target the changes (mutations) in cancer cells that
make them grow. It is more precise than
chemotherapy and often has fewer side effects.
It’s mainly used in cancers like breast, colon, and
lung cancer.

6. Hormone Therapy
Some cancers, like breast and prostate cancer,
grow in response to hormones. Hormone therapy
blocks or lowers the amount of these hormones
to slow or stop cancer growth. It can involve pills,
injections, or surgery to remove
hormone-producing organs.

7. Stem Cell Transplant

Also called bone marrow transplant, this is used
mainly in blood cancers like leukemia or
lymphoma. It allows doctors to give high doses of
chemo or radiation, then replace the damaged
bone marrow with healthy stem cells.

8. Palliative Care
This is supportive care for people with advanced
cancer. It focuses on relieving symptoms like pain,
breathing problems, or emotional stress, and
helps improve quality of life even if the cancer
can’t be cured
 Prevention of cancer
Cancer prevention means taking steps to lower
the chances of getting cancer. While not all
cancers are preventable, many can be avoided
through healthy habits, early detection, and
protection from known risks. Making smart
lifestyle choices now can reduce your future risk.

1. Avoid Tobacco in All Forms

Tobacco is the leading preventable cause of
cancer. It causes cancers of the lung, mouth,
throat, pancreas, bladder, and more. Avoiding
smoking, chewing tobacco, and secondhand
smoke significantly lowers your cancer risk.

2. Eat a Nutritious, Balanced Diet

What you eat affects your health long-term. A diet
high in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole
grains provides antioxidants and fiber, which
protect cells from damage. Reduce red meat,
processed foods, fried items, and sugar to lower
cancer risk.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese increases the risk of
cancers like breast, colon, kidney, pancreas, and
uterus. Staying at a healthy weight through diet
and physical activity helps reduce this risk.

4. Be Physically Active
Exercise helps regulate hormones, improves
immunity, and reduces inflammation — all of
which play a role in preventing cancer. Aim for at
least 30 minutes of moderate activity (like
walking or yoga) on most days.
5. Protect Yourself from the Sun
Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is the main
cause of skin cancer. Always wear sunscreen with
SPF 30 or higher, avoid sunburns, wear protective
clothing and sunglasses, and skip tanning beds.

6. Get Vaccinated
Some infections can lead to cancer. For example:

●​HPV vaccine helps prevent cervical, anal, and

throat cancers.
●​Hepatitis B vaccine reduces the risk of liver
cancer.​
Getting vaccinated at the right age (especially
for teens) is an important step in prevention.

7. Avoid Risky Behaviors

Unsafe sex and sharing needles can spread
infections like HPV, HIV, and Hepatitis B or C,
which increase the chances of developing cancer.
Use protection and avoid activities that lead to
exposure.

8. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol increases the risk of cancers of the
mouth, throat, liver, breast, and colon. The more
you drink, the greater the risk. It’s best to either
avoid alcohol or drink only occasionally and in
small amounts.

9. Get Regular Health Screenings

Early detection saves lives. Regular checkups and
screenings like Pap smears, mammograms,
colonoscopies, and oral checks help detect
cancers at an early stage — when they’re easier to
treat or cure.
10. Know Your Family History
Some cancers run in families due to inherited
gene mutations. If you have a strong family
history of cancer, talk to a doctor about early
screenings or genetic counseling to manage your
risk.
Living with cancer:
coping and support.

A cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, both

physically and emotionally. Living with cancer
means not only dealing with treatment, but also
learning how to handle the mental, emotional,
and social challenges that come with it. Support,
hope, and strength play a huge role in this
journey.

1. Emotional Support
People with cancer often feel fear, anxiety,
sadness, or even anger. Talking to a counselor,
psychologist, or joining a support group helps
them cope better emotionally. Sharing
experiences with others who understand makes a
big difference.
2. Family and Friends
Support from loved ones provides comfort and
strength. Families help with care, daily tasks, and
emotional encouragement. Their love and
presence help patients feel less alone during
tough times.

3. Managing Side Effects

Cancer treatment can cause side effects like hair
loss, fatigue, pain, or nausea. Doctors help
manage these through medications, diet, rest,
and gentle exercise. Keeping a positive mindset
helps the body recover better.

4. Maintaining Hope and Positivity

Staying hopeful boosts mental health. Many
survivors say that staying positive helped them
fight through treatment. Practicing hobbies,
meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature
can improve mood and motivation.

5. Palliative and Supportive Care

Even if the cancer can't be cured, palliative care
helps improve quality of life by managing pain
and discomfort. It focuses on relief, dignity, and
emotional peace.

6. Life After Cancer

After treatment, some people go back to their
usual lives, while others make big changes.
Regular checkups are needed to prevent relapse.
Survivors often become stronger, more mindful,
and even inspire others with their journey.

7. Financial and Social Support

Cancer treatment can be expensive. Many
hospitals, NGOs, and government programs offer
financial help, counseling, and community
support. Patients and families can connect with
social workers for guidance.

Living with cancer is a battle, but it’s also a story

of strength, courage, and resilience. Many people
beat cancer and go on to live fulfilling, meaningful
lives.
 Bibliography

1.​American Cancer Society. What is Cancer?

Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org
2.​Mayo Clinic. Cancer Overview. Retrieved from
https://www.mayoclinic.org
3.​World Health Organization (WHO). Cancer Fact
Sheets. Retrieved from https://www.who.int
4.​National Cancer Institute (USA). Cancer Types
and Treatments. Retrieved from
https://www.cancer.gov
5.​WebMD. Cancer Prevention and Coping
Strategies. Retrieved from
https://www.webmd.com
6.​Cancer Research UK. Diagnosis and Tests for
Cancer. Retrieved from
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org