Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Testq

What is a primary characteristic of cancer cells?

1. Long lifespan

2. Enhanced healing capabilities

3. Increased ability to proliferate

4. Higher resistance to treatment

The correct answer is: Increased ability to proliferate

Cancer cells are characterized by an increased ability to proliferate, which means they can divide and replicate more rapidly than normal cells. This uncontrolled growth is one of the hallmarks of cancer, allowing tumors to enlarge and spread throughout the body. This characteristic is driven by a variety of genetic mutations that disrupt normal cell cycle regulation, leading to a loss of the mechanisms that typically control cell division and growth. The rapid proliferation of cancer cells contributes to the tumor's development and can also affect surrounding tissues, leading to further complications. Additionally, this increased proliferation is a key factor in how cancer can progress despite treatment and can influence treatment strategies, as therapies often aim to target rapidly dividing cells. The other options, while they may seem plausible in certain contexts, do not accurately represent the primary characteristic of cancer cells. For example, while some cancer cells may exhibit resistance to treatment or long lifespans under specific conditions, the fundamental and defining trait is their ability to proliferate uncontrollably.