Cancer begins to form when a disruption occurs in the cell replication cycle. Mutations and damage to the cellular DNA can cause these disruptions, and uncontrolled replication of these calls can result in a tumor. Uncontrolled replication of the damaged cell can result in a tumor. The tumor can then become benign, premalignant, or malignant. If malignant, the mass may grow and affect the function of the organ, surrounding tissues and even spread to other parts of the body as metastatic tumors.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis is personal. Its impact can affect not just the person but their community. Access to diagnostic tools is crucial for screening and monitoring, early prevention and treatment decisions and disease management.