7.6 Environmental Agents and Cancer Flashcards
What is a carcinogen?
substance capable of causing cancer
What are most cancers caused by?
carcinogens that introduce mutations to DNA that go unrepaired or improperly repaired
What is an example of viruses that can cause cancer?
HIV
What are most cancers actually caused by?
environmental exposures
What percentage of environmentally acquired cancers do human made pollutants account for?
only 20%
What is afloxin?
mold that grows on peantus and corn crops
What is one of the most carcinogenic compounds?
afloxin
Where are nitrosamines found?
preserved meats such as bacon and hot dogs
What carcinogens does the human body produce itself?
alkylating agents in the human gut
ROS from normal metabolism
What is a large issue with autoimmune disorders and chronic inflammation?
they produce a constant stimulation of tissue repair and cell division which allow DNA lesions to be more quickly replicated
What are 20% of cancer deaths attributed to?
poor diets associated with obesity and inactivity
What has recently been corellated with colon, stomach, and breast cancer?
high consumption of animal products
What is attributed to 15% of lung cancer deaths?
air pollution
What are two well known carcinogens?
UV light
cigarette smoke
How many people worldwide die from tobacco smoking yearly?
six million people
