How can abnormal cell division lead to cancer?
It starts when the DNA structure of a single cell mutates. The mutation can be a response to exposure to carcinogens, viruses, radiation, genetic influences and sources unknown. Most of the time the mutated cell dies, but sometimes it divides and multiplies without restraint. That’s what cancer is – mutated cells dividing and multiplying. It’s deadly when a cell gets into the lymph system or blood stream and spreads around the body. The cells then lodge in random places and multiply to form tumors. These new tumors are called metastases. They may end up in any part of the body, but when stained and examined under a microscope the pathologist is able to determine the origin of the cells and the surgeons can then look for the primary source. The tumors affect the function of vital organs and they can restrict blood flow. If the rate of cell division is rapid the cancer is termed “aggressive” and it is a challenge to treat. If the cancer is slow-growing, or low-grade there are many more t
