Here's why:
* Uncontrolled Cell Growth: Cancer is characterized by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division. Normally, cells grow and divide in a regulated way, but in cancer, this process goes awry.
* Mutations: Cancer often arises from mutations in genes that control cell growth and division. These mutations can be caused by factors like environmental exposures, genetics, or random chance.
* Tumor Formation: The accumulation of these abnormally dividing cells can lead to the formation of a tumor, which can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
* Metastasis: Malignant tumors can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process called metastasis.
It's important to remember that cancer is a complex disease with many different types. While the fundamental characteristic is uncontrolled cell growth, the specific mechanisms and behaviors of different cancers can vary widely.
