Cancer is caused when certain cells in our body start to grow abnormally. The division of cells is normally very well-controlled by sophisticated systems in the body; many of which are built within the cell itself. But when this control is lost, cells grow and create lumps. If the lumps grow, they eventually attack nearby organs, blood vessels and nerves. These lumps are called a ‘tumor’, and a tumor that continues to grow is called ‘cancer’.
Is cancer genetic?
Clear inheritance of cancer occurs in rare types of familial cancer syndromes. One example is retinoblastoma (cancer of the retina), which usually affects young children.
Carcinogens The division of cells is normally very well-controlled by sophisticated systems in the body; many of which are built within the cell itself. But when this control is lost, cells grow and create lumps. If the lumps grow, they eventually attack nearby organs, blood vessels and nerves. These lumps are called a ‘tumor’, and a tumor that continues to grow is called ‘cancer’.
Is cancer genetic?
Clear inheritance of cancer occurs in rare types of familial cancer syndromes. One example is retinoblastoma (cancer of the retina), which usually affects young children.
Carcinogens
Smoking
In addition to lung cancer, tobacco consumption causes cancer of the larynx, pancreas, kidney, and bladder, among others.
Alcohol Consumption
Consistently drinking excessive amounts of alcohol over a long period of time can cause cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, and liver, and may increase the risk of breast and colorectal cancers.
Pollution
Environmental factors such as pollution of the air, water, or soil is estimated to account for 1-4% of all cancers.
Chronic Infections
Hepatitis B infection is associated with liver cancer, while HPV is associated with cancer of the cervix and uterus.
Radiation
Exposure to high levels of radiation alters cell activity, which can lead to cancer.
Exposure to Sunlight
Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation which can lead to skin cancer, especially as a result of bad sunburns.