ancer, beyond being a disease, is a devastating force that impacts lives profoundly.
Not only does cancer bring complications, but it also affects everyone surrounding the individual, making their lives difficult.
When cancer strikes, it alters not only the person’s physical state but also their perception of themselves.
Cancer goes beyond being a mere illness or complication; it becomes a challenging state of mind that the individual must navigate.
The growth of cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled multiplication of cells, which can also spread to other parts of the body.
Similar to the natural process of cell division in healthy cells, cancer cells multiply and grow, resulting in the formation of tumors.
These tumors are typically cancerous, further complicating the individual’s condition.
1. Genetics
Within the realm of cancer cases, only a small percentage, ranging from 3 to 10%, are attributed to genetic mutations.
Cancer syndrome refers to the hereditary genetic mutations that can be inherited by offspring.
To determine if the chromosomes passed down to the next generation carry any mutated genes, genetic testing becomes crucial.
Instances of genetic cancer are relatively uncommon, with less than 0.3% of the population carrying hereditary cancer forms.
However, individuals who have inherited these genes face a higher risk of experiencing mutations.
2. Physical Agents
arious substances have the potential to cause damage or significant alterations to the body’s cellular and internal processes.
Among these substances, powdered metallic substances are particularly noteworthy as they are strongly linked to cancer.
It is important to note that stress, on its own, does not play a significant role in causing cancer.
Unfortunately, millions of workers worldwide face the risk of developing cancer due to prolonged exposure to carcinogens in their workplaces.
Individuals employed in factories and mines are especially vulnerable, as they have direct exposure to substances that can harm their cells and immune system.
3. Chemical Agents
The consumption of tobacco is responsible for over 80% of lung cancer cases.
In addition to the increased risk of lung cancer, tobacco consumption also poses risks to the liver, lungs, gallbladder, and small intestine.
When individuals consume tobacco, the toxic substances present in the smoke directly affect their respiratory tract and lungs.
Furthermore, tobacco consumption leads to notable changes in DNA.
Specific chemicals like benzene and chloride are particularly concerning, as they can increase the risk of developing cancer.
These toxic substances are small enough to enter the bloodstream through inhalation, causing significant genetic damage.
4. Alcohol
The lifestyle choices an individual makes significantly impact their overall health.
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to chronic liver damage and impair its proper functioning.
Moreover, disproportionate alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of developing cancer.
Lung cancer is responsible for nearly 3.5 cancer-related deaths.
Taking appropriate measures in alcohol consumption and making lifestyle adjustments can help individuals reduce their risk of developing cancer.
It is important to note that alcohol consumption alone does not directly cause cancer.
However, excessive alcohol intake can weaken the immune system, making it less effective in fighting cancer cells.
5. Weight Management and Diet
Multiple studies have shown that the consumption of red and processed meat increases the risk of developing cancer.
A high intake of fat and meat can lead to obesity, while lack of physical exercise contributes to an unhealthy lifestyle and poor physical health.
Dietary factors such as a high concentration of salt can also play a role in causing cancer.
Failure to manage weight appropriately can increase the chances of developing cancer.
It is crucial to maintain a healthy weight, as physical inactivity not only contributes to cancer but also weakens the body’s immune system, allowing cancer cells to multiply more rapidly.
While a poor lifestyle alone does not directly cause cancer, it can further weaken the body and hinder the optimal functioning of the immune system.
6. Hormones
The impact of hormones on cell multiplication is a significant factor in cancer development.
Hormones play a crucial role in various types of cancer, including ovary, prostate, breast, bone, and thyroid cancer.
Higher hormone levels in the body increase the risk of developing cancer.
Fortunately, treatments are available to artificially reduce hormone levels, thereby lowering the risk of cancer associated with these hormones.
Cancer caused by hormonal imbalances or changes can be detected and treated early through proper tests and regular checkups.
Therefore, it is important for individuals to prioritize regular checkups to ensure early detection and timely treatment.
7. Infection
More than 18% of cancer cases are attributed to infectious diseases that can cause genetic instability or damage to an individual’s DNA.
Among the most common infectious agents are parasites, bacteria, and viruses.
Viral infections, in particular, are major contributors to liver cancer and cervical cancer.
These infections weaken critical parts of the body, creating an opportunity for cancer cells to thrive and multiply.
Bacteria and parasites can also stimulate the growth and multiplication of cancer cells by compromising the immune system.
Fortunately, proper medication and treatment can effectively address cancer caused by infection.
8. Inflammation
The immune system, blood cells, and tissues of the body are significantly damaged by inflammation. This damage creates an environment that promotes the progression and development of cancer in that specific region. In response to the external stimulus that causes inflammation, the immune system actively reacts, but cancer cells can easily evade it and rapidly multiply DNA damage and alterations in the genetic material of cells are caused by inflammation Therefore, it is crucial to treat chronic inflammation in order to prevent further complications Inflammation also leads to skin abnormalities, enabling cancer cells to evade the immune system and multiply rapidly. Proper medication can help avoid cancer or reduce the risk, even in individuals facing chronic inflammation.
9. Radiation
Electromagnetic and nuclear radiation differ from other elements that can cause cancer.
Their molecular structure is highly complex and can cause significant damage and changes to genetics and DNA. They have the ability to delete parts of DNA and cause abnormalities in chromosomes, leading to cell death. Although the damage may appear small, it is stable and has the potential to develop into cancer Radiation is powerful enough to damage and delete genes that suppress tumors, promoting the formation of cancerous cells. This increases the likelihood of mutations occurring Electromagnetic radiation, such as radio waves and microwaves, have lower energy levels and are unable to break chemical bonds However, x-rays, gamma radiation, and UV rays possess sufficient energy to cause cancers like skin cancer.
10. Organ Transplant
There is a minor connection between organ transplant and cancer, and the chances of developing cancer from it are relatively low. However, if the donor cells are infected with a virus, the organ recipient may be at risk of developing cancer. This can only occur if a tumor goes undetected during the organ harvesting process. It is rare for an individual to acquire cancer from a transplanted organ, as these organs are thoroughly inspected to identify any abnormalities. Therefore, patients who have undergone organ transplant still require regular post-checkups to monitor their health.
