Cell BiologyTopic Summary
Topic Summary: Cancer and Cell Division Control
Part of Cancer and Cell Division Control — GCSE Biology
This topic summary covers Topic Summary: Cancer and Cell Division Control 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 18 of 18 in this topic. Use this topic summary to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 18 of 18
Practice
18 questions
Recall
22 flashcards
Topic Summary: Cancer and Cell Division Control
Key Terms
- Cancer: Uncontrolled cell division from gene mutations
- Benign: Non-spreading tumour in a capsule
- Malignant: Cancerous tumour that invades and spreads
- Metastasis: Spread of cancer via blood/lymph to distant sites
- Carcinogen: Substance or radiation that causes DNA mutations
- Oncogene: Mutated gene that drives uncontrolled division (stuck accelerator)
- Tumour suppressor: Gene that normally stops division (brakes)
Must-Know Facts
- Cancer arises from mutations in DNA — not from the cell "choosing" to divide
- Multiple mutations usually needed before cancer develops
- 90-95% of cancers caused by environmental/lifestyle factors, not inheritance
- Benign tumours stay in one place; malignant tumours spread
- Metastasis is the main reason cancer becomes difficult to treat
- Chemotherapy works by killing rapidly dividing cells — which is why it has side effects
Risk Factors (BUMS)
| Factor | Example | Cancer type |
|---|---|---|
| Burning (UV) | Sun exposure | Skin cancer |
| Unhealthy diet | High fat, alcohol | Bowel, liver |
| Mutagens | Asbestos, benzene | Lung, leukaemia |
| Smoking | Tobacco smoke | Lung, throat |
| Genetic | BRCA1/2 mutation | Breast, ovarian |
Quick Reference: Exam Answer Chain
Risk factor (e.g. UV radiation) → damages DNA → mutation in cell cycle genes → oncogene overactive / tumour suppressor inactivated → uncontrolled mitosis → tumour forms → if malignant, metastasis occurs