Oncology refers to the relatively young medical sciences. However, its development is proceeding at a very fast pace. An active study of cancer is associated with the rapid growth of these pathologies. From malignant neoplasms, millions of people die. A high percentage of mortality and morbidity is observed everywhere, including in developed countries.
Cancer is difficult to treat, especially in the later stages. Therefore, the actions of doctors and scientists are aimed at preventing this deadly disease. To resist oncological pathologies, it is necessary to know the causes of their occurrence. Currently, there are many etiological factors that can lead to the development of cancer.
World cancer statistics
According to world statistics, oncological diseases occupy the 3rd place in terms of mortality. Diseases mostly occur in the elderly. However, over the past decade, pathology has "become younger." Some types of cancer are found in childhood. Among them - cancer of the lymph nodes, blood, soft tissues. Depending on the location of the primary tumor focus, statistics on malignant neoplasms were compiled. Among the female population, breast cancer is most common. It is followed by oncological diseases of the cervix, stomach, intestines, thyroid gland. In men, lung cancer is in first place in the frequency of occurrence. Also, a malignant lesion of the prostate gland, stomach, rectum, liver, etc. often occurs.
The most common oncological pathologies, regardless of the patient’s gender, are: skin, lung and breast cancer. Among pediatric patients, common types of malignant neoplasms are: lymphomas, neuro- and retinoblastomas, leukemia. They are followed by tumors of bones and soft tissues, kidneys.
What does an oncologist do?
About 100 years ago, surgeons engaged in malignant processes. It was believed that the treatment of tumors consists only in their removal. Currently, there are many treatments available. Cancer is identified by an oncologist.
The duties of this specialist include the following:
- Diagnosis of malignant tumors.
- Determination of the stage of pathology and group follow-up observation.
- The choice of treatment methods, referral to a specialized medical institution.
- Accounting and monitoring of patients.
- Clinical examination of persons who have a predisposition to cancer pathologies.
- The provision of palliative care to patients who are not indicated for treatment due to the serious condition and prevalence of cancer throughout the body.
Depending on the specialization of the oncologist, there are several types of doctors. These include: a chemotherapist, a radiologist, and a general surgeon involved in the removal of tumors.
Causes of oncological pathologies
It is impossible to accurately indicate the causes of oncology. However, numerous studies have revealed that some factors contribute to the development of cancer. These include:
- Smoking. The risk of developing cancer increases in people prone to bad habits.
- Improper nutrition. For the manufacture of products today are actively used chemicals - pesticides. Many of them are considered carcinogens.
- Genetic predisposition is another cause of oncology. Cancer often occurs in representatives of the same family.
- Environmental impact. An increase in the incidence rate is associated with environmental degradation.
- Exposure to viruses. This refers to pathogens that are in the body constantly. Among them are the Epstein-Barr virus, CMV, various types of HPV, ureaplasma, chlamydia, etc.
- Stressful effects. In most cases, malignant tumors develop in people prone to depression, reacting sharply to various life situations.
- Endocrine Disorders
The causes of oncology can be various. However, under the influence of the same factors, some people develop cancerous degeneration of cells, while others do not. Therefore, the individual characteristics of the body are of great importance.
The role of the environment in cancer development
Changes in the environment strongly affect public health. Environmental degradation is a huge problem. Due to the occurrence of the “ozone hole”, the appearance of smog over large cities, and water and soil pollution, there is a tendency for pathologies to grow. This is especially true for cancer and genetic defects.
The risk of developing cancer increases with the presence of radioactive substances in the area. Due to ionizing radiation, tumors of the thyroid gland, lymphoid tissue, and blood appear. Long exposure to the sun is considered one of the reasons for the development of melanoma - one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Arid climate leads to the appearance of a lip tumor, degeneration of the mucous membranes.
The effect of hormonal changes on cancer
According to doctors, the causes of oncology lie in the change in hormonal levels. Increased secretion of estrogen and a decrease in the functional activity of the thyroid gland is found in almost all women with breast cancer. Another proof of this theory is that oncological processes in the mammary glands and genitals (cervix, ovaries, endometrium) develop in patients who take hormonal contraceptives for a long time. Symptoms of cancer in women are often associated with hyperestrogenia. These include: emotional lability, a change in the menstrual cycle, dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
Causes of Cancers in Children
The causes of oncology in children have not yet been fully clarified. As in adults, the appearance of cancer in a child is associated with a burdened hereditary history, adverse effects, stress. The risk of tumors increases with the influence of carcinogenic factors on the fetus. Incorrect laying of organs during childbearing occurs for the following reasons:
- The use of drugs contraindicated in pregnant women.
- Late age of mother and father (over 35 years old).
- Alcoholism, smoking.
- The development of infectious diseases in the mother.
- The use of narcotic substances.
- Stress factors.
Oncological pathologies in most cases occur in children with congenital anomalies. Teratomas often undergo atypia. As a result, a malignant tumor develops.
Causes of Adult Cancer
The causes of oncology in adults are the same. Cancer often develops in the elderly and senile. One of the reasons is the weakness of the immune defense. In addition, malignant tumors in adults develop against the background of precancerous pathologies. These include chronic inflammatory processes that have undergone cirrhotic changes. Among them: a stomach ulcer, cervical erosion, hemorrhoids, anal fissure, viral hepatitis, pancreatitis, etc.
Unlike children, adults are more stressed, therefore this factor is considered one of the leading in the development of cancer. Long-term smoking is also of great importance. It is believed that it is the main etiological factor in the development of lung cancer. The risk of this pathology is increased in people who smoke more than 1 pack per day for many years.
The role of nutrition in the development of oncology
Scientists believe that the causes of oncology lie in the wrong diet. Unfortunately, in the modern world, many products are genetically modified. This is due to the addition of pesticides to various products. These chemicals have a carcinogenic effect. In addition, malnutrition leads to chronic pathologies of the stomach and intestines. These diseases belong to precancerous conditions. Therefore, it is recommended not only to eat natural foods, but also to combine them correctly when cooking.