Cancer and Related Terms

Ribonucleic acid (RNA)

• The genetic material that guides the formation of cell proteins.

• A type of protein that helps in DNA replication.

• A molecule that stores energy in cells.

• A carbohydrate that provides structural support to cells.

Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays

• Ultraviolet rays that pass deeper into the skin and are believed to cause skin damage and skin cancers.

• Ultraviolet rays that are blocked by the ozone layer and do not reach the Earth's surface.

• Ultraviolet rays that primarily cause sunburn and superficial skin damage.

• Ultraviolet rays that are used in tanning beds and are considered safe for skin.

Sun protection factor (SPF)

• The degree of protection offered by ingredients in sunscreen lotion; at least SPF 15 is recommended.

• A measure of how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned.

• The amount of sunscreen needed to achieve full protection.

• A rating system for the effectiveness of tanning oils.

Telomeres

• Strands of molecules at both ends of a chromosome.

• Proteins that help in DNA replication.

• Segments of RNA that code for proteins.

• Enzymes that repair DNA damage.

Carotenoids

• Pigment substances in plants that are often precursors to vitamin A.

• A type of carbohydrate found in fruits.

• A class of proteins that aid in photosynthesis.

• Minerals essential for plant growth.

Cancer

• A group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.

• A type of infection caused by bacteria.

• A genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to produce insulin.

• A mental health condition that leads to severe mood swings.

Endocrine disruptors

• Compounds that enhance hormone production in the body.

• Compounds that interfere with the body’s endocrine (hormone) system, disturbing the immune system, nervous system, and reproductive system, and causing adverse effects including cancer and birth defects.

• Compounds that have no effect on the endocrine system.

• Compounds that only affect the nervous system.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

• The molecule that contains a cell’s genetic code.

• A type of protein that helps in cell division.

• A carbohydrate that provides energy to cells.

• A lipid that forms the cell membrane.

Epigenetics

• The study of genetic mutations in an organism.

• The study of differences in an organism caused by changes in gene expression rather than changes in the genome itself.

• The study of the physical structure of DNA.

• The study of how environmental factors affect genetic inheritance.

Telomerase

• An enzyme that allows cells to reproduce indefinitely.

• A protein that repairs damaged DNA.

• A hormone that regulates cell growth.

• A type of RNA that helps in protein synthesis.