This memory aid covers Memory Aids for Cancer Risk Factors within Cancer and Cell Division Control for GCSE Biology. Cancer development, cell cycle control mechanisms, tumor formation, risk factors, prevention methods, and treatment approaches It is section 14 of 18 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
Memory Aids for Cancer Risk Factors
Use "BUMS" to remember the main carcinogen categories:
- B — Burning (UV radiation from the sun causes skin cancer)
- U — Unhealthy diet (high fat, low fibre, excess alcohol)
- M — Mutagens (chemical carcinogens such as asbestos, benzene)
- S — Smoking (tobacco smoke contains 70+ known carcinogens)
Alternative concept hook:
"Cancer = Cell Anarchy — No Controls, Everyone Replicates"
This reminds you that cancer is the breakdown of the normal rules governing cell division: checkpoints fail, oncogenes drive constant replication, and tumour suppressor genes no longer provide control.
Oncogene vs Tumour Suppressor — the Car Analogy:
- Proto-oncogene = accelerator pedal. Works normally until mutated into an oncogene (accelerator stuck down).
- Tumour suppressor gene = brake pedal. Works normally until mutated (brakes fail).
- Cancer = accelerator stuck + brakes gone. Uncontrolled speed.
Practice questions for Cancer and Cell Division Control
In a healthy cell, cell division is controlled by:
Explain the difference between benign and malignant tumors.