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advanced cancer

(ad-VANST KAN-ser)
A term that is often used to describe cancer that is unlikely to be cured. However, some advanced cancers can be controlled for many years with treatment and are thought of as a chronic illness. Treatment may be given to help shrink the tumor, slow the growth of cancer cells, relieve symptoms, or help a person live longer. Advanced cancer may also be used to describe cancer that has spread from where it first started to nearby tissue, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body.
More Information
Search NCI's Dictionary of Cancer Terms