Biology and Medicine

Genetic and Environmental Factors Contribute to Cancer Development

Liming Wang^* Department of Oncology, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
^*Correspondence: Liming Wang, Department of Oncology, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China, Email:

Received: 26-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. BLM-23-21389; Editor assigned: 01-May-2023, Pre QC No. BLM-23-21389(PQ); Reviewed: 15-May-2023, QC No. BLM-23-21389; Revised: 22-May-2023, Manuscript No. BLM-23-21389(R); Published: 29-May-2023, DOI: 10.35248/0974-8369.23.15.569

Description

Cancer is a complex disease that can result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic factors refer to inherited changes in DNA that can increase a person's risk of developing cancer, while environmental factors refer to external factors such as lifestyle choices, exposure to certain chemicals or substances, and infectious agents that can also contribute to its development. Genetic factors play a critical role in cancer development. Changes in DNA can alter the function of genes that control cell growth and division, leading to the uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells. These genetic changes can be inherited from parents or acquired during a person's lifetime.

Inherited genetic mutations can increase a person's risk of developing types of cancer. For example, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Inherited mutations in other genes, such as TP53 are associated with an increased risk of colon cancer and other types. Not all inherited genetic mutations lead to cancer, and not all cases of cancer are caused by inherited mutations. In fact, most cancers are thought to result from a combination of inherited and acquired genetic changes.

Acquired genetic mutations are changes in DNA that occur during a person's lifetime. These mutations can be caused by exposure to certain chemicals or substances, such as tobacco smoke, or by errors that occur during cell division. These mutations can occur in any cell in the body, but they are most likely to occur in cells that divide frequently, such as those in the breast, colon, and lungs. Over time, these mutations can accumulate and lead to the development of cancer.

Exposure to asbestos is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma, while exposure to benzene is associated with an increased risk of leukemia. Lifestyle choices can also contribute to cancer development. For example, tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable cancer deaths worldwide, with smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke being linked to an increased risk of lung, bladder, and other types of cancer. Other lifestyle factors that can increase risk include alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. Infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer, while infection with Helicobacter pylori is associated with an increased risk of stomach cancer.

Contaminated water sources can expose individuals to carcinogenic substances. Governments and local authorities must prioritize safe water management by enforcing rigorous testing and treatment procedures. Additionally, strict regulations and monitoring should be implemented to prevent the release of hazardous chemicals into water bodies, ensuring the protection of both human health and the environment. Improper waste disposal can lead to the release of toxic substances into the environment, posing long-term health risks. Governments should prioritize waste management systems that emphasize recycling, composting, and safe disposal of hazardous materials. Encouraging individuals and industries to adopt eco-friendly practices and providing accessible recycling facilities can significantly reduce the release of carcinogens into the environment.

Educational programs and campaigns should focus on informing individuals about potential environmental carcinogens, their sources, and their health risks. Public awareness initiatives can empower individuals to make proper decisions about their lifestyle choices and the environment they inhabit. For individuals who are at high risk of developing certain types of cancer due to inherited genetic mutations, preventative measures such as prophylactic surgery or increased surveillance may be recommended.