The cells in our body grow, divide and die according to a natural law. But for some reason, when the control system of cells breaks down, old cells do not die and new cells multiply uncontrollably, tumors form in the body. We call this deadly condition cancer. The factors that cause cancer are scientifically called carcinogens. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind the occurrence of cancer:
Genetic Mutations: The basic scientific reason for the occurrence of cancer is the changes in the DNA structure inside the cells. When DNA is damaged due to smoking, pollution and chemicals, the ‘oncogenes’ in the cells wake up and the cells start dividing rapidly. About 5-10% of cancers are inherited from parents through genes (for example, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that cause breast cancer).
Tobacco & Alcohol: Tobacco is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Cigarette smoke and tobacco products (such as chewing tobacco and pan masala) contain about 70 deadly chemicals. These directly cause cancers of the lungs, throat, mouth, and stomach. In addition, when you drink too much alcohol, the body converts alcohol into a toxin called acetaldehyde, which damages DNA and increases the risk of liver and breast cancer.
Fast food and lifestyle changes (Poor Diet & Obesity): Regular consumption of excessively fried and fried foods, bakery products, packaged foods with preservatives, and processed meats such as sausage and ham can cause cancers of the digestive system. People with obesity and a large belly have chronic inflammation in the body and excessive production of hormones such as insulin. This stimulates cell growth and leads to cancer.
Some viruses and bacteria (Infectious Agents): Some chronic infections can cause cancer in the body. For example, cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses can cause liver cancer, and the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which causes stomach ulcers, can cause gastric cancer.
Radiation & Toxins: Exposure to the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight can damage skin cells and cause skin cancer. Along with this, radiation from excessive X-rays and CT scans, and inhalation of toxic chemicals such as asbestos, arsenic, and benzene from workplaces are the main scientific causes that make cells susceptible to cancer.
