Causes of Human Disease: Exploring Cancer and Genetic Disease

Understand the role of genes in cancer and genetic disease

It’s widely known that some diseases run in families. The discovery of the structure of DNA and the unravelling of the genetic code has led to a deeper understanding of such diseases. We now know more about the genetic basis of cancer and how cancer cells are formed and reproduce. On this course you’ll explore the structure of DNA, its processes and learn how genetic disease results from DNA alterations. You’ll look closely at the nature of these changes, causes and risk factors – this is vital in the case of cancer, as prevention has proved to be an effective way of managing this disease.

The course is suitable for anyone with a general interest in the science behind causes of human disease. No previous knowledge or experience is required. If you are working in nursing, healthcare or social care, or just wish to learn more, this course is designed to support you as a professional. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 14 hours of CPD time.

• What is the structure and function of genes?
• Welcome
• DNA, genes and chromosomes
• Why are proteins important?
• What happens when DNA replication goes wrong?
• Revision
• Summary
• What happens when genes malfunction?
• About Week 2
• Causes of cancer
• Transformation of normal cells into cancer cells
• Causes of genetic disease
• Revision
• Summary