A new report from the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) finds that four common infections are responsible for approximately 13% of all cancer cases worldwide.
Bacteria and viruses cause cancer
American Association for Cancer Research clarifies: In most cases, stomach cancer is caused by bacteria, cervical cancer and some other types of cancer of the genital organs and oral cavity are caused by viruses, and some chronic viral infections can lead to liver cancer.
But there is also encouraging news. Scientists have identified 4 common infectionsthat have the potential to cause cancer and are aware how to prevent the development of cancer. According to Duke School of Medicine professor of medicine Michael Pinion, “We are close to turning some common cancers into rare diseases.” More details tells The New York Times.
Human papillomavirus
HPV is transmitted sexually. In most people who contract the virus, the infection goes away on its own, researchers say. But approximately Every tenth woman with HPV develops a persistent infection in the cervix with a high risk of cancer.
Most people who are sexually active are infected with the human papillomavirus at least once in their lives. Condoms help protect against the virus, but The best protection is vaccination. Experts recommend vaccinating children with two doses between the ages of 9 and 14, before becoming sexually active. Boys are also vaccinated because they can be carriers of the virus. The report says that patients with human immunodeficiency virus should be given 3 doses of vaccineregardless of manufacturer:
“The HPV vaccine is not recommended for all adults over 26 years of age because it may not be as effective at this age. However, after consulting with a doctor, adults ages 27 to 45 can also get vaccinated.”
Hepatitis B and C
Oncologist from the American state of Texas, Dr. Sunyunga Lee, claims that Hepatitis viruses can cause liver cancer – they “provide” constant inflammation, which leads to scarring and cirrhosis. In some cases, hepatitis B causes changes in healthy liver cells. Hepatitis B can spread in different ways:
- from infected mother to child;
- from an infected child to a healthy child during the first five years of life;
- during unprotected sexual intercourse;
- with saliva, for example, through a kiss;
- together with various body fluids: menstrual blood, vaginal discharge or sperm;
- through reuse of syringes and needles.
The hepatitis C virus is transmitted through blood. Both infections are detected using blood tests. One of the effective ways to prevent hepatitis B is vaccination – it prevents infection and the development of chronic consequences in 96% of cases. Children must receive 3 doses of the vaccine. There is no vaccine against hepatitis C yetbut the best way to prevent the risk of infection is to avoid sharing needles.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
Approximately half of the world’s population are carriers of this bacterium. 1-3% of them develop cancer, and still scientists have not been able to determine why and how this happens.
H. pylori is found in saliva, dental plaque, and feces. According to Dr. Nina Salama, senior vice president for education at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center (USA), infection usually occurs during childhooddue to close family contact or crowded living quarters, and is asymptomatic in most cases.
The infection, Salama explains, causes chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosawhich contributes to the development of cancer. Bacteria also bring toxic proteins into cells that can cause mutations. The strain of bacteria and a person’s genetics may also play a role.
The best way to prevent the spread of H. pylori in your family is to avoid sharing dishes, glasses, and toothbrushes as much as possible. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before preparing food and after using the toilet kills this bacteria.
