All You Need to Know About the Various Causes of Cancer

The second leading cause of death, there are over 18.1 million new cases of cancer around the world each year. Out of these 18.1 million global cases, more than 1.7 million cases happen in the United States. While most cancer cases have unrestrained growth of cells in common, there are many other ways it can develop and grow in the human body. Some kinds of cancers can be inherited, whereas some develop due to our lifestyle choices or what we get exposed to throughout our lives, so no two cases are identical.

It is important to increase awareness about this disease and its complexities to help everyone fight it better. Here is all you need to know about cancer and its various causes so you can be better prepared.

When Can Cancer Occur?

The presence of cancer in the human body begins when cells start to grow uncontrollably, invading and causing damage to the normal tissue present around them. The development of the disease happens in different stages. But sometimes, the cancer cells reach other healthy parts of the body via the bloodstream or the lymphatic system.

Where Can It Occur?

The disease can affect many parts of the body, from the skin to blood vessels to organs like the lungs, kidneys, bones, and more. It can also attack the immune system, causing the disease to progress and develop faster.

Is Cancer Hereditary?

The genes present on the chromosomes of your DNA, can sometimes start mutating and become cancerous. The causes of these mutations can be multiple, including your diet and environment, and lifestyle choices. Statistically, only 5-10% of cancers can be genetically inherited, and these hereditary cancers generally show signs earlier in life. Over the years, scientists and medical professionals have developed technology and tests to find biomarkers that help determine the risk and chances of cancer, based on the patient’s genetic makeup. These biomarkers also help in determining appropriate treatment options.

Do Lifestyle Choices Cause Cancer?

There are multiple unhealthy lifestyle choices that accelerate the genetic mutation of your cells, resulting in the development of cancer. Chewing tobacco, smoking, tanning, or any form of exposure to radiation or ultraviolet light, your diet, too much alcohol, unsafe sex, obesity, and more can increase your chances of developing cancer.