Origins Of Cancer - Myths Debunked!

Did you know that a disastrous disease such as cancer starts off with just a single change in the DNA of a cell? Understanding the origins of cancer is crucial for us to identify the root causes of the disease, allowing better prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells. This uncontrolled growth is the result of a mutation, a change in the base sequence of DNA affecting genes that incite unlimited cell growth.

In a regular cell, powerful genetic mechanisms regulate cell division and cell death strictly. DNA carries the instructions for how cells should function, including when to grow, divide, or die. When mutations occur, these instructions can become faulty. Therefore in a cancer cell these damaged mechanisms unleash unlimited cell growth.

Inherited mutations are passed down from parents and increase the risk of cancer from birth, creating a genetic predisposition. These mutations are present in every cell of the body. Acquired mutations, on the other hand, develop during a person’s lifetime due to environmental factors (like smoking or UV exposure) or random errors during cell division. These mutations occur in specific cells and are not inherited.

While inherited mutations raise the risk of cancer, most cancers are caused by

acquired mutations.

Two genes that play a vital role in cancer incidence are Oncogenes

and Tumor Suppressor genes. 

Proto-oncogenes are genes that normally help cells grow and divide. When they become mutated or overactive, they can turn into cancer-promoting genes (Oncogenes).

Whereas Tumor Suppressor genes act as the body’s defense against cancer by slowing down cell division, repairing DNA mistakes, or triggering cell death when necessary. When these genes are mutated or turned off, they lose their ability to control cell growth, allowing abnormal cells to multiply unchecked, contributing to cancer formation.

A single mutation, however, is not enough to cause cancer. Cancer is a result of the accumulation of multiple mutations in a cell’s DNA over time. Cells undergo several genetic changes over the years, which disrupt the normal balance of growth and control. Initially, one mutation may trigger abnormal cell growth, but additional mutations in key genes, like oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, are needed for cells to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. This gradual process can take years or even decades, which is why cancer often develops later in life.

Unlike healthy cells, cancer cells ignore signals to stop dividing and can evade programmed cell death. As these cells divide, they accumulate more mutations, allowing them to evolve and adapt to their environment. This evolution enables them to grow faster, resist treatments, invade nearby tissues, and sometimes spread to other parts of the body (metastasis), making cancer progressively harder to control.

Although age is an important factor when it comes to cancer incidence, there are other factors that increase cancer risk significantly including diet, toxins and other chemicals. A poor diet, especially one high in processed foods, red meats, and low in fruits and vegetables, can increase cancer risk. Some foods may contain carcinogens, substances that promote cancer by damaging DNA, while a healthy diet rich in antioxidants can help protect cells from damage. Exposure to harmful chemicals, such as those in tobacco smoke, pesticides, or industrial pollutants, can cause mutations in DNA. These substances can damage cells over time, leading to the development of cancer in organs like the lungs, liver, or skin.

Simple lifestyle choices can greatly reduce cancer risk. Eating a diet full of fruits, veggies, and whole grains gives your body the nutrients and antioxidants it needs to protect your cells. Quitting smoking is key since tobacco is a major cause of lung cancer. Protecting your skin with sunscreen and covering up helps prevent skin cancer. Regular exercise can lower the risk of cancers like breast and colon cancer, and cutting down on alcohol reduces the chance of liver and breast cancer. These easy habits boost overall health and help keep cancer at bay.

In conclusion, understanding cancer’s origins and risk factors is essential for prevention and early intervention. Remember, cancer is a result of gradual mutations in DNA, which highlights the importance of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

By — Anisha Pawar