Cancer is one of the most common causes of death in the U.S., second only to heart disease. In 2021 alone there were an estimated 1.9 million new cases of cancer diagnosed and over 600,000 fatalities. This is a non-majors course that is focused on providing students with a "big picture" view of cancer. Students will explore the nature of cancer; its various forms and how it spreads; the genetic basis of the disease; cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment; evidence for the hereditary nature of certain types of cancer; and cancer prevention. Students will select a specific type of cancer at the beginning of the semester and keep a journal that researches its cause; morbidity and mortality; how it spreads; treatment options; and its impact on family structure and society. [MNS]
- Profesor: Robert Shurina