Why are cancer cells harmful? Select all statements that apply.
A. They absorb nutrients needed by other cells.
B. They block nerve connections.
C. They prevent organs from functioning properly.
D. They stop cell growth and division.

Cancer cells are harmfull because they absorb nutrients needed by other cells, block nerve connections and prevent organs from functioning properly (options A, B and C).

Explanation:

Cancer is the result of the loss of the mechanisms that regulate cell multiplication and tissue growth, generating tumors. These tumors can have cells similar to the tissue that originated them or undifferentiated cells, which determines the criterion of malignancy.

A cancerous tumor can affect the organism due to its growth and where it is located, affecting the function of the affected organ, invading other tissues and organs, sequestering the nutrients necessary for their development and function and even causing the interruption of nerve pathways.

Additionally, cancer cells can travel to other locations and cause secondary tumors, called metastases.

Learn more:

Carcinogen and cancer link