External factors have a big impact on how cells divide and can increase the chances of getting cancer. Let’s break down some of these important factors:
Some substances, like tobacco smoke, asbestos, and benzene, can hurt the DNA in our cells. When DNA gets damaged, it can cause changes, or mutations. These changes can turn on certain genes that speed up cell division or turn off genes that normally stop cell division. This can lead to too many cells being produced, raising the risk of cancer.
Radiation, like the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays and X-rays, can also damage DNA. For instance, UV light can create problems in DNA that, if not fixed, can result in mutations. One important gene affected by this is called TP53, which usually helps prevent cancer. When this gene is changed, it can make cancer more likely.
Being overweight is another factor that can be linked to cancer. Extra fat in the body can create hormones, like estrogen, which can encourage cells in areas like the breast and the uterus to divide more. This increases the chances of tumors forming in these places.
Some viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, can insert their own genetic material into our DNA. This can either turn on genes that lead to more cell division or turn off genes that usually stop it. This process is important for developing certain types of cancer, like cervical and liver cancers.
In conclusion, knowing about these external factors helps us understand how complex cancer really is. It also highlights why it’s important to make healthy choices and get vaccinated when we can.
External factors have a big impact on how cells divide and can increase the chances of getting cancer. Let’s break down some of these important factors:
Some substances, like tobacco smoke, asbestos, and benzene, can hurt the DNA in our cells. When DNA gets damaged, it can cause changes, or mutations. These changes can turn on certain genes that speed up cell division or turn off genes that normally stop cell division. This can lead to too many cells being produced, raising the risk of cancer.
Radiation, like the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays and X-rays, can also damage DNA. For instance, UV light can create problems in DNA that, if not fixed, can result in mutations. One important gene affected by this is called TP53, which usually helps prevent cancer. When this gene is changed, it can make cancer more likely.
Being overweight is another factor that can be linked to cancer. Extra fat in the body can create hormones, like estrogen, which can encourage cells in areas like the breast and the uterus to divide more. This increases the chances of tumors forming in these places.
Some viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, can insert their own genetic material into our DNA. This can either turn on genes that lead to more cell division or turn off genes that usually stop it. This process is important for developing certain types of cancer, like cervical and liver cancers.
In conclusion, knowing about these external factors helps us understand how complex cancer really is. It also highlights why it’s important to make healthy choices and get vaccinated when we can.