Cancer is a disease that strikes fear in many people today. The cells in our body have a precise control system. The natural process is that old cells die and new ones are born. But for some reason, this natural control of cells is lost and they multiply uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. The cells that multiply in this way form tumors in the body. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind cancer:
DNA Mutations: The most basic scientific cause of cancer is damage to the DNA inside the cells. DNA controls the growth and division of cells. When mutations occur in the DNA structure due to smoking, alcohol, chemicals, and natural radiation, cells do not die and divide uncontrollably.
Carcinogens & Tobacco: The factors that cause cancer are scientifically called carcinogens. The most prominent of these is tobacco. Cigarettes and tobacco products contain more than seventy deadly carcinogenic chemicals (for example, arsenic and benzene). This causes cancer in the lungs, mouth, and throat. Excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of cancer in the liver and digestive system.
Changing diet and processed foods: Today’s fast food culture is a major reason for the increase in cancer. Foods with artificial colors, fried and charred meats (Carcinogenic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons), packaged foods with preservatives, and excessive flour and sugar increase free radicals in the body. This causes oxidative stress in cells and leads to cancer.
Certain viruses and bacterial infections (Oncogenic Viruses): Certain infections that remain in the body for a long time can cause cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer in women. Hepatitis B and C viruses cause liver cancer, and the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) causes stomach cancer.
Inherited Genetics: About 5 to 10 percent of cancers are inherited from parents to children through genes. For example, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which cause breast and uterine cancer, can be passed down through families to the next generation. In addition, obesity, lack of exercise, and chronic inflammation can also increase the risk of cancer.
