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Understanding the origins of cancer, or cancer etiology, has led to identifying underlying causes and environmental hazards that contribute to cancer development. Most cancers are caused by mutations in genes, but research into apoptosis and repairing damaged genes offers potential treatments. Identifying inherited genes and specific mutations can also aid in fighting cancer. Practical applications include banning asbestos, reducing smoking rates, taking precautions against sunlight, and preventing some cancers through vaccination.
Cancer etiology is the study of the origins of cancer and can also refer to the specific cause of a certain type of cancer. Work on the etiology of cancer has provided a basic idea of \u200b\u200bhow cancer is formed. This is potentially important for preventing and treating cancer. The study of the origins of cancer has identified, for example, the underlying cause of cancer as well as environmental hazards that contribute to the development of cancer.
Most cancers are caused by mutations in genes in the body’s cells. Specifically, errors can be incorporated into a cell’s deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that is passed on to surviving daughter cells. If the genes responsible for regulating cell division are damaged, cells can multiply too quickly and can eventually lead to cancer. Damage to genes responsible for DNA repair or those that regulate a cell’s lifespan can also lead to too rapid cell division. Some mutations are likely to be inevitable, but radiation, some chemicals, and viruses increase the likelihood of DNA damage.
A better understanding of the etiology of cancer has led to research efforts along the lines outlined above. For example, programmed cell death is called apoptosis, and mutations in the genes that control it can cause cancer cells to outlast what would otherwise be their normal lifespan. Research into some new cancer drugs hopes to find ways to cause cancer cells to undergo apoptosis by means of signaling chemicals. Another possible drug treatment could include ways to repair damaged genes that are supposed to suppress cancerous mutations.
Some people are more likely to develop certain types of cancer because of the genes they inherited from their ancestors. Identification of these genes could increase understanding of cancer etiology. Identifying specific mutations may also allow for the development of more sophisticated ways to fight cancer.
The study of cancer etiology has had many practical applications. For example, asbestos, a mineral previously used in fire-retardant materials, has been banned or phased out in many countries after it was found to cause a specific type of lung cancer associated only with asbestos exposure. The established association between tobacco and cancer has led to a continued decline in smoking rates. Overexposure to sunlight, which has been found to be associated with skin cancer, has allowed precautions to be taken by wearing more clothing or sunscreen. The discovery that some viruses can cause cancer makes it possible to prevent some cancers by vaccination.
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