Oncology

What is Cancer?

Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells. A cancer cell has an abnormal chromosome from either a genetic change or from some sort of damage or injury. This abnormal cell starts sending the body the wrong message, and the cell begins to grow rapidly to form a lump or mass that is called a tumor.

Removing and examining some of the abnormal cell tissue from the tumor (a biopsy) can tell if the tumor is cancerous (malignant) or benign (non-malignant). If the cells are malignant and the diagnosis of cancer is made, your doctor will discuss the best way to treat your cancer.

St. Vincent Charity Medical Center Oncologic Services has earned Commission on Cancer Certification with Accommodations.