Cancer Definition

Oncogenes, for example, are genes that were originally normal genes (proto-oncogenes) that performed their functions, such as cell development and proliferation, but have mutated into genes that can cause normal cells to become cancerous. These genes can be handed down to the next generation if they are present in the egg cell or sperm cell.

As a result, cancer caused by inherited altered genes is referred to as hereditary cancer. However, as previously said, cancer is not inherited, but the faulty gene that causes cancer is. When oncogenes are turned on, previously healthy cells escape apoptosis (programmed cell death) and instead multiply.

Only about 5% to 10% of all cancers are caused by genetic abnormalities passed down from parents.This indicates that most cancers are caused by altered genes in an individual’s genes.

The mutation is acquired later in life in this situation, therefore it is not inherited from the parents. One of them is carcinogen exposure. Physical, chemical, or biological carcinogens exist. They have the ability to wreak havoc on DNA. When genes are damaged by DNA, a problem emerges.

A mutation can occur when the nucleotide sequence of DNA is disturbed. Not all mutations result in noticeable alterations. When they occur, and the body’s inherent DNA repair systems fail to fix them, the mutation will remain and is likely to become heritable.

When this happens, normal protein synthesis may be disrupted, or the proteins may be produced but prove to be defective. In certain cases, the genes are active for longer periods of time than they should be.

Asbestos, tobacco smoke components, aflatoxin, and arsenic are examples of chemical carcinogens. Some infections have the ability to turn a cell malignant. Helicobacter pylori, hepatitis B or C virus, Epstein-Barr virus, HIV, and human papillomavirus all have the ability to change the host cell’s genes.

As a result, these infections might be biological carcinogens. Electromagnetic radiation, such as UV and ionising radiation, are examples of physical carcinogens. Since the late 1800s, electromagnetic pollution (dirty power) has been a problem.

Utility power, switch-mode power energy supplies in electronics, variable speed motors in “smart appliances,” PV system invertors, and utility ground current are all examples of it.

Cancer is caused by the interaction of genes with various carcinogens. Other risk factors, however, are also in play. The age of a person is a significant determinant in the development of cancer. The danger grows as the person gets older.

The underlying cause is thought to be the degradation of the body’s repair system as it matures. Aside from age, additional risk factors include lifestyle (e.g., smoking, excessive alcohol use, lack of exercise, and a poor diet) and environmental variables (e.g. pollution).