Scientists at Yale University have taken a big step in understanding cancer. They’ve been trying to figure out what really causes the changes in our DNA that lead to cancer in many common types.
While some cancers are known to be largely preventable through our choices, like skin cancer from too much sun exposure and lung cancer from smoking, it’s been hard to tell exactly how much of any cancer is due to these preventable causes versus just aging or random chance.
Previously, experts found ways to predict how certain things that cause specific DNA changes might lead to cancer in our bodies.
Building on this, the Yale team looked at specific genetic mutations in 24 different types of cancer. They wanted to see how much things like ultraviolet light were responsible for these cancers growing.
They used a method that lets them measure how much each mutation contributes to cancer. This helped them to show how much of the cancer was caused by known factors, like sun exposure, and unknown but identifiable factors.
What they found was quite interesting. For some cancers, like those of the bladder and skin, preventable factors played a big role in their development.
But for others, like prostate cancers and brain cancers called gliomas, it seemed that they were mostly caused by internal processes related to aging.
This research is not just about understanding cancer better. It could also help identify why certain groups of people or people in certain jobs might have higher rates of cancer. This could be due to exposure to harmful substances.
The researchers think this approach is promising because it can help pinpoint the underlying causes of tumor growth. However, they also say that not all genetic changes leading to tumors are covered by their current method.
So, there’s more to explore, especially regarding complex genetic changes like duplicated genes or chromosomes.
Despite these limitations, the findings from this study could be a game-changer for public health officials. It might help them identify cancer sources more quickly, which could prevent more tumors from forming and save lives.
This study, published in Molecular Biology and Evolution and led by Jeffrey Townsend, is a significant step in unraveling the complex factors that contribute to cancer. It opens up new possibilities for cancer prevention and public health measures.
For those interested in cancer and nutrition, the study adds to a growing body of research, including studies on the links between artificial sweeteners, fish consumption, low-carb diets, vitamin D supplements, and cancer risks.
If you care about cancer, please read studies that artificial sweeteners are linked to higher cancer risk, and how drinking milk affects risks of heart disease and cancer.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about the best time to take vitamins to prevent heart disease, and results showing vitamin D supplements strongly reduces cancer death.
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