A new study from Yale University has provided fresh insights into what causes DNA changes that lead to cancer. The research helps explain how much control people might have over cancer risk through lifestyle and environmental choices.
The scientists focused on genetic mutations in 24 types of cancer. These mutations can show how outside factors—like too much sun or smoking—affect tumor growth. By analyzing the mutations, the researchers were able to estimate how much of each type of cancer might be caused by preventable exposures.
This information is especially useful for common cancers in the United States, such as skin cancer and lung cancer. Skin cancer is often caused by UV light from the sun or tanning beds. Lung cancer is strongly linked to tobacco use. Since these causes are related to human behavior, these cancers are considered largely preventable.
While previous research has shown that behaviors like smoking or too much sun can cause DNA damage, this new study goes further by measuring how much these factors contribute to cancer. The researchers assigned percentages to both known and likely causes of different cancers.
They found that many cases of bladder and skin cancer are mostly caused by preventable factors. This means that avoiding certain behaviors—like smoking or tanning—could significantly lower the risk of getting these cancers.
In contrast, cancers like prostate cancer and gliomas (a kind of brain tumor) are more connected to internal processes, like aging, which are harder to control. This shows that while some cancers can be prevented, others may not be as avoidable.
The study’s results may also help in other ways. For example, people in certain jobs or communities may have higher cancer rates. This research could help identify hidden exposures to harmful substances in those groups.
However, the researchers also note that their study does not explain all types of genetic changes. More complex changes—such as when genes or chromosomes are duplicated—weren’t fully included in the analysis. This means more research is needed to understand how those changes may lead to cancer.
The study, led by Jeffrey Townsend and published in the journal Molecular Biology and Evolution, shows how important lifestyle and environment are in cancer development. It also highlights the value of public health efforts and personal choices in lowering cancer risk.
For people who want to stay healthy, this research is a helpful reminder to be aware of cancer risks. Making good choices—like not smoking, avoiding too much sun, and staying informed about healthy habits—can make a real difference.
Other studies have shown that a low-carb diet might raise the risk of some cancers, while vitamin D supplements could help lower the chance of dying from cancer. As science continues to grow, this kind of information can guide people to make smarter choices for their health.
If you care about cancer risk, please read studies that exercise may stop cancer in its tracks, and vitamin D can cut cancer death risk.
For more health information, please see recent studies that yogurt and high-fiber diet may cut lung cancer risk, and results showing that new cancer treatment may reawaken the immune system.
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