Cancer is a disease that is increasing rapidly all over the world and is frightening to humanity. The natural process of cells in our body growing and dying with precise control is a natural process. But for some reasons, the DNA structure of the cells gets damaged, and the cells multiply rapidly without any control and spread to other parts of the body. Scientifically, this is called malignancy. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind the occurrence of cancer:
Genetic changes and DNA mutations: The most basic scientific reason for the occurrence of cancer is the changes that occur in the genes in the cells. When the DNA structure of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes that control the growth of cells is damaged, the natural death of the cells (Apoptosis) is lost and they become cancer cells. In some people, such damaged genes are inherited from their parents.
Tobacco & Alcohol Consumption: Smoking is the leading cause of cancer in the lungs, throat, mouth, and bladder. Cigarette smoke contains more than sixty deadly chemicals called carcinogens. These directly damage the DNA of cells. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause liver cancer, breast cancer, and cancer of the digestive tract.
Chemicals & Radiation: Some elements in the environment we live in can cause cancer. Ionizing radiation from X-rays and CT scans, ultraviolet rays from the sun (UV Radiation – the cause of skin cancer) that are exposed to too much sunlight can damage cells. In addition, asbestos, arsenic, dioxins produced when plastic burns, and pesticides in food can also increase the risk of cancer.
Certain viral-bacterial infections (Infectious Agents): Some types of viruses can enter the body and change the genes of cells, leading to cancer. Examples include the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer, the hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses, which cause liver cancer, and the H. pylori bacteria, which causes stomach ulcers and cancer.
Obesity & Unhealthy Diet: A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, chronic inflammation, and hormonal changes in the body can cause breast cancer and colorectal cancer. In addition, processed meat (sausage, bacon), fried foods, and foods with artificial colors also increase the risk of cancer.
