Concepts of multidisciplinary management

Abstract

Carcinogenesis is a multistep process consisting of progressive molecular and cellular changes leading to early invasive cancer and finally to distant metastasis and death. The initiation and progression of cancer usually takes years. Attempts are being made to reverse the molecular and cellular changes at an early stage of cancer initiation or progression. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that at least one-third of all cancers are preventable. This chapter outlines the biological and environmental risk factors associated with cancer, and preventative measures including cancer screening and genetic counselling. It also covers the principles of cancer diagnosis and management, principles of surgical oncology, radiotherapy, systemic therapy, and clinical trials.