There are several indications that cells may have become cancerous. These can vary depending on the type of cancer and its location, but some general signs include:
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Uncontrolled Growth: Cancer cells often lose the normal regulatory mechanisms that control cell division, leading to rapid and uncontrolled proliferation.
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Abnormal Cell Shape and Size: Cancerous cells may exhibit unusual shapes and sizes, different from normal cells, often with irregular nuclei.
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Loss of Differentiation: Cancer cells may lose their specialized functions and characteristics, becoming less like the original tissue from which they originated.
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Invasion of Surrounding Tissues: Cancer cells can invade neighboring tissues and organs, which is a hallmark of malignancy.
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Metastasis: The ability of cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
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Changes in Cell Structure: Cancer cells may have an abnormal number of chromosomes (aneuploidy) or mutations in their DNA.
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Altered Cell Communication: Cancer cells may evade normal signaling pathways that regulate growth and apoptosis (programmed cell death).
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Persistent Symptoms: In some cases, symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, prolonged cough, changes in bowel habits, unusual bleeding, or lumps can indicate the presence of cancer.
If there's a suspicion of cancer, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate testing.
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