| CANCER |
MOLECULAR BASIS OF CANCER
Mutations in genes result in altered proteins
- During cell division
- External agents
- Random event
Most cancers result from mutations in somatic cells. Some cancers are caused by mutations in germline cells. 80% are considered sporadic- meaning the cause is unknown.
RISK FACTORS OF CANCER
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Age- risk increases >50.
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Diet- high fat, high cholesterol diets increase risk.
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Obesity- no clear link but research indicates it is a factor
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Cigarettes- increases lung cancer, other tobacco products such as pipes and chewing tobacco increase cancers of the mouth.
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Long term exposure to chemicals- asbestos, radon and benzene.
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Exposure to high levels of radiation
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Harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
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Some viruses- Hepatitis B, C, HPV, Epsteinn-Barr.
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Immune system diseases
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Heredity
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