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Cancer is caused by changes in cells - OCR Gateway - GCSE Biology - Question 19 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 19
Cancer is caused by changes in cells. (a) Describe the effects that cancer has on cells. (b) Cells usually become cancerous due to damage to their DNA. Scientists... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Cancer is caused by changes in cells - OCR Gateway - GCSE Biology - Question 19 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the effects that cancer has on cells.
Answer
Cancer cells can undergo uncontrolled growth and division, leading to the formation of tumours. These cells may also invade neighboring tissues and metastasize to other parts of the body. Additionally, cancer can cause disruption to normal cell functions, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and pain.
Step 2
(i) Calculate how many females in the UK could develop breast cancer due to a mutation in the BRCA gene.
Answer
First, calculate the number of females with the mutation:
- Total females:
- Females with mutation:
Next, calculate the number likely to develop breast cancer:
- Likely to develop breast cancer: of
- Calculation:
Therefore, the answer in standard form is females.
Step 3
Explain why operating to remove this tumour could produce side effects.
Answer
Operating to remove a brain tumour can produce side effects because the brain is an extremely sensitive organ. Surgery may damage healthy brain tissue, which can lead to complications such as changes in cognitive function, motor skills, or even loss of sensation in certain areas. One possible side effect is impaired coordination due to damage to areas responsible for movement and balance.