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GlossaryCancer

uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells

Cancer, also known as a malignant tumor or malignant neoplasm, is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the spread is not controlled, it can result in death. Cancer can develop in almost any part of the body and often forms a mass called a tumor, although not all cancers form tumors (e.g., leukemia). The study and treatment of cancer fall under the field of oncology.