What Genetic and Environmental Factors Produce Cancer?

Several different factors contribute to the development of cancer. Genetics can play a role, which means you are more likely to develop cancer if others in your family already have. Environmental factors can also increase your chances of developing cancer, including lifestyle choices like smoking and exposure to harsh chemicals.

Many of these environmental factors are known carcinogens, which are substances that potentially increase your risk of developing cancer. Doctors have identified more than 100 known carcinogens and do their best to warn patients to avoid them.

From genetics to carcinogen exposure, learn more about your potential cancer risk. Here are a few commonly known factors that produce cancer.

1. Asbestos

Asbestos was a commonly used material in building insulation and construction to prevent the spread of fires. However, when you inhale small fibers from asbestos, they can stay in your lungs and form a specific type of cancer called mesothelioma.

There are approximately 3,000 new mesothelioma cases in the United States each year. People are more likely to develop mesothelioma if they have prolonged asbestos exposure, like home contractors who frequently handle the material.

2. Tobacco

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of cancer and cancer deaths.” Avoiding cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and chewing tobacco is the easiest way to prevent the development of several cancers. Not only are you more likely to develop lung cancer from inhaling smoke from tobacco, but you are also more likely to develop cancer in your mouth, throat, stomach, kidneys, liver, and colon.

Each year, 660,000 Americans are diagnosed with cancer that is related to tobacco use. On average, 343,000 people die. If fewer people smoked or chewed tobacco, these cancer deaths would decrease.

3. Radon

According to the EPA, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. An estimated 21,000 lung cancer deaths occur each year because of radon. Of those deaths, 2,900 patients never smoked.

Radon is a natural radioactive gas that is often found in basements. Homeowners can invest in radon test kits to identify whether their family is at risk and take steps to improve ventilation in their homes to dissipate this gas.

4. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is also a naturally occurring gas that can be found throughout your house and neighborhood. One of the most common sources of formaldehyde outdoors is automobile exhaust. Some fruits contain formaldehyde in small amounts, but that doesn't mean that they are bad for you. This just highlights how common this gas is.

While formaldehyde is considered a probable human carcinogen, researchers are still working to prove a connection between this gas and cancer diagnoses.

5. Ultraviolet Rays

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can increase your chances of developing melanoma, also known as skin cancer. Melanoma is the most common cancer both in the United States and worldwide. Nearly 20% of Americans will develop skin cancer before they reach 70 which ultimately equates to two people dying of skin cancer every hour.

You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by avoiding tanning beds and wearing sunscreen when you go outside. When possible, stay in the shade and wear protective clothing like pants, long-sleeve shirts, hats, and sunglasses.

6. Genetic Factors

Genetics refers to the biological data that parents pass on to their children. Along with passing on DNA that affects hair and eye color, some parents unknowingly pass on an increased propensity to develop certain cancers. Other genetic changes can also increase a person's risk of developing cancer.

Heritable Genetic Factors

Heritable genetic factors are genes that indicate whether someone is more likely to develop certain diseases. For example, if your grandmother was diagnosed with a certain type of cancer, there is an increased likelihood that your mother and you could also receive the same diagnosis in your lifetime.

Breast cancer is one of the most common hereditary genetic cancers. This disease can be found in both men and women across a family tree. While leukemia is not genetic, certain factors can make you more likely to develop this disease. This further highlights the role that genetics have in your future health.

Acquired Genetic Mutations

Somatic gene mutations occur after birth, which means they are not passed on from family members. Your body can change genetic material if the malignant cells start overpowering the healthy ones. There is a significant connection between acquired gene mutations and the development of cancer.

7. Alcohol

An estimated 4% of cancers diagnosed globally are caused by alcohol consumption. In the U.S., alcohol consumption is linked to 75,000 cancer cases and 19,000 cancer deaths annually.

All alcohol types come with a cancer risk. It doesn't matter whether you prefer beer, wine, or liquor, drinking alcohol is a risk factor for cancer development. Doctors recommend consuming alcohol in moderation or abstaining from it entirely to protect your health.

8. Processed Foods

Research continues to find links between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and the development of certain cancers, especially cancer in the head, neck, and esophagus.

A large percentage of America’s food supply is ultra-processed. According to one study, “71% of products were classified as ultra-processed.” These are foods that are significantly changed during production, which means they have added salt, sugar, fat, preservatives, or artificial colors.

Try to prepare your own meals to avoid processed foods if you are concerned about cancer development. Buy natural fruits and vegetables along with meat and dairy products. Eating a bowl of freshly cut fruit, for example, is often healthier than drinking a bottle of processed fruit juice.

9. Deep-Fried Foods

Fried foods often have higher concentrations of acrylamide, high levels of which have been linked to cancer in animal studies. However, it’s not clear whether there’s a connection between acrylamide consumption and cancer in humans.

It’s more likely that fried foods contribute to cancer in people who overconsume them and therefore have excess body weight, which is the second leading preventable cause of cancer, according to the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Many people eat heavily fried meals at fast food locations. These meals are highly processed and packed with extra fat and sugar. They can also significantly increase your caloric intake.

You don't have to eliminate fried foods from your life, but try to consume them in moderation and practice good portion control.

10. Red Meat

Researchers are increasingly finding connections between red meat consumption and the development of colon cancer. While meat from cows can provide a valuable source of protein, consider increasing the amount of chicken and fish you consume on a rotating basis.

When you do eat red meat, avoid processed cheeseburgers and other fast food items. This way, you aren't consuming preservatives and other additives alongside the beef.

How Does Cancer Start?

Cancer starts when normally healthy cells divide incorrectly. In most cases, these damaged cells will die off. In some cases, they will continue to divide and become cancerous. The cancerous cells can form a tumor and spread throughout the body. The more the cells divide, the more prevalent the cancer.

There are more than 200 different types of cancer that have a variety of causes and symptoms. This is a complex disease, which is why researchers are constantly working to develop better screening and treatment options. Learn more about how cancer works on a biological level and turn to reputable sources for your information. The more you know about cancer, the more steps you can take to protect your health and detect any abnormalities early on.

What Percentage of People Will Get Cancer?

An estimated 41.6% of men and 39.6% of women are at risk of developing some form of cancer in their lifetimes. As medical technology grows more advanced, doctors are better able to detect cancer. When doctors catch cancer sooner, they can immediately treat patients and use less invasive options because the cells are just developing.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.