Posted On : Feb 06 , 2025
Posted By : Team CureSureMedico
Cancer is such a kind of disease that might be caused by quite a few well-known factors: smoking, UV radiation, unbalanced diet, and many other factors. However, some causes of cancer are much more unexpected and far from being known to the general public. Learn these unexpected triggers that have been connected to the development of cancer.
1. Extremely hot beverages
Drinking very hot liquids, such as very hot tea or coffee, above 65° C may facilitate the development of oesophagal cancer. Excessive heat burns the mucosa and stimulates chronic inflammation, which enhances the chance of cellular mutation.
2. Beauty products
Chemicals contained in some cosmetics, particularly parabens and phthalates, are also suspected of playing the role of endocrine disruptors. Therein may be involved the link with induction of hormone-dependent tumours such as breast cancer.
3. In excessive use of mobile phones
Though not all studies agree, long-term exposure to the electromagnetic waves of phones may serve as a risk factor for the development of brain tumours. Certain researchers advise reducing exposure by the use of headsets and minimizing long calls.
4. Indoor pollution
Where many are complaining about outdoor pollution, the air we breathe in can be detrimental. Cleaning products, scented candles, and even indoor air fresheners contain volatile organic compounds that may be carcinogenic.
5. Sedentary lifestyle
Sedentariness is a risk factor that is underestimated. It promotes chronic inflammation, disrupts hormonal balance, and increases insulin resistance-three elements that can contribute to the development of cancers, particularly of the colon and breast.
6. Certain hormone therapies
Hormone replacement therapies used to relieve menopause symptoms have been linked to an increased risk of hormone-dependent cancers. Close medical monitoring is therefore recommended for patients undergoing these treatments.
7. Prolonged exposure to artificial light
Night work and excessive exposure to the blue light of screens upsets melatonin production, the hormone regulating the sleep-wake cycle. A decrease in this hormone could be associated with a higher risk of breast and prostate cancer.
8. Some ultra-processed foods
The carcinogenic effects of additives, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners in many foods produced industrially are suspected. Ultra-processed foods have been associated with an increased risk for certain types of cancers.
9. Chronic stress
Prolonged stress depresses the immune system, and promotes inflammation, which can give rise indirectly to the development of certain cancers. Learning how to cope with stress through techniques such as relaxation or physical exercise could be one possible preventive measure.
10. Some garments
Fabrics which have been treated with flame retardants and also some chemical dyes happen to be carcinogenic. Wearing untreated natural fibres is far safer for people.
11. Medical implants
Proliferation of anaplastic large-cell lymphoma, which has been associated with some implants such as textured breast implants. It calls for very intense medical follow-up to watch for abnormality.
12. Tap water
Tap water can contain toxic contaminants such as nitrates, lead, and pesticide residues which may increase the risk of digestive cancers. A water filter may decrease exposure to these potential carcinogens.
13. Intake of meat cooked by grilling or smoking
PAHs and heterocyclic amines are found in meat that has been cooked at high temperatures. These are classified as probably carcinogenic. Less aggressive forms of cooking meat, such as steaming and baking, should be favoured to reduce these exposures.
14. Certain viral infections
Some cancers are caused by viruses, such as the human papillomavirus or the Epstein-Barr virus. These may include cervical and nasopharyngeal cancers, among others. Vaccination and early screening could reduce those risks.
15. Poor sleep
Lack of sleep disrupts hormone regulation and increases vulnerability to various types of immune system cancers. Good sleep behaviour is important to health.
Although the causes of some cancers are still unknown, many can have their risks minimized by practising healthy lifestyle habits. Prevention entails avoiding, when not necessary, exposure to carcinogenic substances, monitoring diet, and managing stress as an effective way of protecting against this insidious disease.
