Course Type:
Lecture-based (no lab)

Course Duration:
One semester (approx.. 10–12 weeks)

Target Audience:
Medical, biomedical, or health science students (Bachelor or early Master level)

Course Objectives:
This course provides an introduction to the field of oncology, with a focus on the fundamental
mechanisms of cancer development, early detection, and prevention strategies. Students will gain
knowledge of the biological basis of cancer, risk factors, warning signs, and principles of cancer
control at the individual and population level.

Course Content (Topics):

1. Introduction to Oncology and Cancer Epidemiology
   1. Basic concepts, definitions, global cancer burden, and trends.
2. Oncogenesis and Cancer Biology
   1. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer development: mutations, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes.
3. Mutagenesis and Carcinogenesis
   1. Environmental, chemical, and genetic factors contributing to cancer.
4. Cancer Risk Factors
   1. Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors: lifestyle, infections, occupational exposures, radiation, hereditary syndromes.
5. Warning Signs and Clinical Symptoms of Cancer
   1. How different cancers present in early and advanced stages.
6. Methods of Cancer Detection and Diagnosis
   1. Imaging techniques, biopsy, histopathology, tumor markers.
7. Principles of Early Detection and Screening
   1. Screening programs (e.g., breast, cervical, colorectal cancer), advantages and limitations.
8. Cancer Prevention and Public Health Strategies
   1. Primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention; vaccination (HPV, HBV); health promotion and awareness campaigns.
9. Cancer Staging and Prognostic Factors
   1. TNM classification and staging systems.
10. Introduction to Cancer Treatment Modalities
    1. Basic overview of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy.

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

• Explain the basic biological and molecular mechanisms underlying cancer.
• Identify major risk factors and early warning signs of cancer.
• Describe the principles of cancer detection, diagnosis, and prevention.
• Discuss public health approaches to reducing cancer incidence and mortality.
• Demonstrate an understanding of cancer as a global health issue.

Recommended Literature:

• Weinberg R.A. – The Biology of Cancer
• WHO and ECDC reports on cancer screening and prevention
• Selected scientific articles provided by the instructor