Question

In discussing oncology, we find that there are multiple possible types and sources of tumors. Name and discuss five environmental agents that may contribute to cancerous cell growth. How can patients limit their exposure to these agents you list?

In adddition to environmental agents, heredity may also be a factor. What specific types of tumors have been shown to have hereditary links? What might someone at risk do to limit his or her risk from hereditary sources?

Answer 1

Five environmental agents that may contribute to cancerous cell growth are:-

• Ultraviolet radiation
• Air pollution
• Deliberate exposure to sunlight.
• Excessive exposure to some chemicals such as radon,asbestos,etc
• Naturally occurring infections agents

Patients can limit their exposure to following agents by following ways:-

• Protect the body while going out from UV rays by either coving the body or apply sunscream.
• Less use of gadgets like cell phones.
• Less exposure to sunlight
• Testing the for basement radon, and doing radon remediation if levels are too high

Hereditary factors may also cause tumours such as breast cancer or ovarian cancer. It may run in the subsequent generations.

Hereditary cancer can be prevented by:-

• eating a healthy diet
• being more physically active
• quitting smoking
• having regular checkups
• looking for any signs of change to your body
• having certain tests such as genetic testing, a mammogram or a colonoscopy
• beginning screening at an earlier age or having screening tests more often
• taking drugs that may help lower risk (chemoprevention)
• having preventive (prophylactic) surgery to remove the organs that have the highest risk of developing cancer