Course Information

Dear Students,

Welcome to the Propedeutics of Oncology course.

This course is designed to provide a foundational understanding of oncology. It will introduce you to
the biological, clinical, and public health aspects of cancer, with a focus on early detection, prevention,
and awareness.

Course Format

The course will consist of lecture-based sessions only. Attendance at all lectures is mandatory to
complete the course.

Course Content Overview

The lectures will cover the following key topics:

  1. Oncogenesis
    1. Mechanisms of tumor development and cellular transformation.
  2. Mutagenesis and Cancer Genetics
    1. The role of genetic mutations in cancer initiation and progression.
    2. Oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes.
  3. Cancer Risk Factors
    1. Environmental, lifestyle, genetic, and occupational factors.
    2. Modifiable and non-modifiable risks.
  4. Warning Signs and Symptoms of Cancer
    1. How cancer manifests clinically across different organs and systems.
  5. Cancer Detection and Diagnosis
    1. Diagnostic methods including imaging, histopathology, and biomarkers.
    2. Importance of early-stage diagnosis for improved prognosis.
  6. Population-Level Prophylaxis and Prevention
    1. Screening programs, vaccinations (e.g. HPV, HBV), and lifestyle interventions.
    2. Strategies to reduce cancer mortality through public health policies.

Student Responsibilities & Assessment

To complete the course, students must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Attend all lectures – Attendance is compulsory and will be monitored.
  • Prepare and deliver a presentation: Each student (or group) will be assigned a specific type
    of cancer by the lecturer.
  • You will research this topic and present your findings in class, including:
    • Epidemiology
    • Risk factors
    • Typical clinical presentation
    • Diagnostic approaches
    • Available treatments
    • Preventive measures

The quality of your presentation will contribute to your final assessment.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Describe the basic biological mechanisms of cancer development.
  • Identify major risk factors and signs of cancer.
  • Understand how cancers are diagnosed and the importance of early detection.
  • Recognize key strategies in cancer prevention and population health.