Medicine + Disease YR11 Flashcards
What is a carcinogen?
A substance that causes cancer or significantly increases the risk of developing cancer
What is ionising radiation?
Radiation with enough energy to ionise molecules and potentially cause mutation and cancer
What is a correlation?
A link or relationship between two factors
What is a causal mechanism?
Something that explains how one factor influences another
What is a risk factor?
A characteristic, condition or behaviour that increases the possibility of disease or injury
What is a tumour?
A mass of abnormally growing cells
What is a benign tumour?
A growth of abnormal cells contained within a membrane and not spreading to other parts of the body
What are malignant tumour cells?
A growth of abnormal cells that can spread around the body
What is cancer?
A malignant tumour invading neighbouring tissues and spreading around the body
Name four causes of cancer.
Genetics, mutation, ionising radiation and viruses
What are two ways cancer is treated?
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy
How does your skin prevent infection?
By acting as a barrier, secreting antimicrobial substances and being a host to friendly microorganisms
What is mucus?
A sticky liquid that traps pathogens and particles
What are cilia?
Tiny hair-like projections that waft mucus up to the back of the throat where it is swallowed
How does your stomach prevent infection?
It produces hydrochloric acid that destroys microorganisms
