Data Analysis for Different Types of Cancer

Different types of cancer all develop through the same basic biological processes. However, there are important

differences between the types of cancer that develop in different parts of the body. For example:

• The characteristics that increase the risk of cancer differ for different types of cancer.

• Different types of cancer have a different prognosis (measured as the proportion of patients still alive

five years after diagnosis).

Type of Cancer

Lung

Breast

Melanoma*

A Characteristic or Behavior that

Increases the risk of This Type of Cancer

Smoking

Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes

Sunburns; high sun exposure during recreation and vacations

*Melanom a is the most dangerous type of skin cancer.

Prognosis

(Five-year survival)

16%

86%

91%

Cigarette smoke contains multiple cancer-causing chemicals which smokers typically inhale into their lungs. A

pack-a-day smoker has about 10 times greater risk of lung cancer than a person who has never smoked.

Cigarette smoking accounts for more than 80% of cases of lung cancer.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes contribute to DNA repair, and inherited mutations in these genes account for

roughly 5% of breast cancers.

The UV radiation in sunlight can damage the DNA in skin cells.

6. Identify three (3) behaviors as a teenager that increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer

decades later as a middle-aged adult. Then identify three (2) behaviors as a teenager that increase

the likelihood of developing melanoma decades later as a middle-aged adult. (5 pt)