We are constantly asked, “What about cancer?” Our bodies are designed for long-term survival, but there are many reasons why we develop and contract cancer. Evolutionary principles and ecological relationships play an important role in determining how the cancer cells develop and spread. Advanced cancers comprise billions of cells, each representing a competing subspecies. These cells exhibit high genetic variability due to high mutation rates, multiple selective hurdles, and increasing cell generations. In fact, each cancer cell clone represents a thousand or more generations. Cancers can span the entire evolutionary history of Homo sapiens.
Inherited genes can contribute to the development of cancer in people with a genetic predisposition. If a family member has been diagnosed with cancer, there’s a good chance that the mutations passed down through generations are responsible. Genetic testing can pinpoint inherited mutations, but it doesn’t guarantee a person’s risk of developing cancer. Some chronic health conditions may also increase their risk. Regardless of genetic predisposition, a plant-based diet and lifestyle can reduce cancer risks.
In the future, driverless cars may be the norm. And service robots may take over many jobs humans don’t want to do. As technology advances, cancer treatment will change, as well. Whether or not these changes occur will depend on the individual’s needs. But for now, cancer experts are confident that the changes will be positive. So, what is next? Until then, you can continue to take care of yourself. It’s always a good idea to take the time to seek medical advice and ask questions to your doctor.
While the exact cause of cancer is still unknown, experts agree that certain traits increase the chances of developing cancer. Some of these risks can be prevented, such as smoking, drinking too much, or exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Other risk factors can be genetic, such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight. Inherited mutations can also affect the functions of genes involved in DNA repair. Inheritance of a gene mutation may also cause cancer in the body.
Although little is known about the effects of cancer on firefighters, the risk of developing certain diseases is greatly increased. Cancer survivors should consider these risks and practice social distancing. It’s also important to remember that cancer patients have more needs than basic necessities. As the research progresses, we can expect more details to be released. The American Cancer Society’s deputy chief medical officer, Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, shared this podcast with the media.
Most cancers in children are rare, according to the National Cancer Institute, which defines them as 15 out of every 100,000. But cancers in children have a long history of neglect, and many of these types of cancers are not treated with the same precision as those in adults. Luckily, there are now non-profits that help us learn more about childhood cancers. This way, we can get better treatments for more people with rare cancers.
