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Cancer Causes: Genetic Mutations, Environmental & Lifestyle Risk Factors
Core Molecular Drivers
- DNA mutations from carcinogens (UV radiation, tobacco, chemicals, radiation) or replication errors.
- Tumor suppressor gene inactivation (e.g., TP53, RB1) removing growth brakes.
- Oncogene activation (e.g., RAS, MYC, HER2) driving uncontrolled proliferation.
- Telomere maintenance via telomerase reactivation, enabling replicative immortality.
Contributing Risk Factors
- Genetic predisposition (inherited mutations: BRCA1/2, Lynch syndrome, etc.)
- Chronic inflammation (IBD, hepatitis, H. pylori) causing DNA damage.
- Environmental exposures (air pollution, asbestos, radon, occupational carcinogens).
- Lifestyle factors: tobacco, alcohol, diet (processed meats, low fiber), inactivity, obesity.
Prevention & Early Detection
Understanding these pathways informs screening (colonoscopy, mammography, LDCT, Pap/HPV), vaccination (HPV, HBV), and modifiable risk reduction—cornerstones of modern cancer control.
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