10 of the Most Dangerous Everyday Things Science Has Linked to Cancer

Right after cardiovascular diseases, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Worldwide, cancer accounts for 1 in 6 deaths.

Cancer, also called neoplasms or malignant tumors, can affect any part of the body. It occurs when there is a rapid growth of abnormal cells that crowd out the normal cells. When these cells invade other parts of the body—this process is otherwise known as metastasis—it can interfere with how the body normally works. Metastasis is the primary cause of death from cancer.

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Cause of Cancer

WHO, in partnership with its cancer research agency, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), has developed a classification of cancer-causing agents. These changes in the cells are attributed to the interaction between a person's genetic factors and three categories of external agents, including:

• physical carcinogens (ultraviolet and ionizing radiation)
• chemical carcinogens (asbestos, tobacco smoke)
• biological carcinogens (infections from certain viruses, bacteria, or parasites)

(Photo: pixabay)

Prime Suspects as Carcinogens

Scientists have regarded the following as fundamental causes of cancer.

1. Sugar

Research shows that cancer cells love to feed on sugar. Johan Thevelein, a Belgian molecular biologist, who made a study in 2017, shows that sugar consumption of cancer cells leads to continuous stimulation of cancer growth and development.

2. Processed foods

Consuming industrially-processed food that can last for months increases your risk of getting cancer. A study conducted in France shows that the plastic packaging of these types of food usually includes bisphenol A or BPA. This material can disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system and lead to higher cancer rates. Sodium nitrite, an additive in processed foods, has also been shown to cause cancer.

3. Smoking

Smokers, as well as nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke, are more likely to develop deadly forms of cancer. Vaping, which has only been around since 2003, can also contribute to cancer cases because it tends to promote lung inflammation. 

4. Prolonged sun exposure and tanning

Skin Cancer Foundation noted that people who used tanning beds before the age of 35 have an increased risk of developing cancer. They also recommended to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and to use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen daily.

5. Exposure to toxic chemicals in the workplace

The CDC has published a list of occupational hazards. According to scientists, nightshift workers are also prone to developing cancer, as working at night disrupts the average body circadian rhythm of sleep and wake cycles.

6. Grilling meat over an open flame 

Cooking meat over an open flame can cause meat juices to drip into the fire. This fire sparks flames and smoke containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs, which cooks into the meat.  PAHs are chemicals formed when meat is cooked at high heat or over an open fire.

7. Alcohol Consumption

The National Cancer Institute shows strong scientific consensus that the higher rate of alcohol consumption a person is engaged in, the higher chances of his or her developing alcohol-associated cancer. 

8. Birth Control and Estrogen Pills

Estrogen, the female sex hormone, is a known human carcinogen. Women who went into menstruation early or started menopause later in life have an increased risk of getting cancer.

9. Genetics

Family genetics plays a significant role in about five to ten percent of all cancers. Genetic changes in the germ cells (egg or sperm), inherited from parents, can promote cancer.

10. Obesity

Obesity can put you at risk of developing several types of cancer. By maintaining proper body weight, intake of healthy food, and regular exercise, the chances of developing cancer can be reduced.

While a lot of factors come into play when it comes to developing cancer, it is important to remember that this disease has not yet been fully understood. Scientists continuously look for different cancer treatment methods.

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