National Cancer Institute National Cancer Institute
U.S. National Institutes of Health National Cancer Institute
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Understanding Cancer Series: Cancer
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    Posted: 01/28/2005    Reviewed: 09/01/2006
Slide 1  :  What is Cancer?

Cancer is a renegade system of growth that originates within a patient's biosystem, more commonly known as the human body. There are many different types of cancers, but all share one hallmark characteristic: unchecked growth that progresses toward limitless expansion.

It is difficult to imagine anyone who has not heard of this illness. Most people have been affected because either they or their loved ones or friends are cancer survivors.

Because cancer is so prevalent, people have many questions about its biology, detection, diagnosis, possible causes, and strategies for prevention.

What is Cancer?