What Causes Cancer? Understanding the Root Factors

 Cancer doesn’t have a single cause. Instead, it's the result of a complex mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that disrupt normal cell function and trigger uncontrolled growth. While researchers continue to learn more every day, here are the key known contributors to cancer:

1. Genetic Mutations

At the heart of cancer is DNA damage or mutations. These changes can happen randomly or be inherited. Some people are born with genetic predispositions that make them more likely to develop certain types of cancer, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations linked to breast and ovarian cancers.

2. Lifestyle Choices

Certain habits and behaviors significantly increase cancer risk:

• Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer and contributes to many others.

• Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to liver, breast, and esophageal cancers.

• Poor diet and lack of exercise can lead to obesity, a known risk factor for multiple cancers.

3. Environmental Exposures

Long-term exposure to harmful substances can raise cancer risk:

• Radiation (like UV rays from the sun or radon gas)

• Asbestos, found in some older buildings

• Pesticides, air pollution, and industrial chemicals

4. Infections

Some viruses and bacteria can cause cancer by damaging DNA or triggering chronic inflammation:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) – linked to cervical and throat cancers

• Hepatitis B and C – associated with liver cancer

• Helicobacter pylori – a bacteria linked to stomach cancer

5. Hormones

Hormonal imbalances or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can influence the development of cancers such as breast, prostate, and ovarian.

6. Chronic Inflammation

Conditions that cause long-term inflammation (like ulcerative colitis or chronic pancreatitis) can increase the risk of certain cancers over time.

---

It’s Not Always Preventable

It’s important to remember: not all cancers can be prevented. Sometimes, they develop without any known cause. But understanding the risk factors empowers us to make healthier choices, advocate for regular screenings, and catch problems early—when they’re often most treatable.