IGN Intelligent Gene Networks Technology

Overview

Cancer is caused by changes to certain genes that alter the way our cells function. Some of these genetic changes occur naturally when DNA is replicated during the process of cell division. But others are the result of environmental exposures that damage DNA. The environment is filled with substances that can potentially lead to cancer in humans. Many people are familiar with some cancer-causing substances, which are broadly known as carcinogens.

A carcinogen is a specific chemical or physical agent that has the ability to cause cancer in individuals exposed to that agent. Some carcinogenic agents are associated with increasing the risk of developing specific types of cancer. Once we have identified carcinogens, we can then go on to take specific measures to limit our exposure and so reduce the incidence of specific cancers associated with carcinogens.

Common Carcinogens You Should Know

Crispy, Brown Foods
When some vegetables, like potatoes, are heated to high temps, they can give off a chemical called acrylamide. Acrylamide is a carcinogen. Acrylamide is also found in many products you buy as well as in tobacco smoke.

A carcinogen is something that can cause you to have cancer. It may be a substance in the air, a product you use, or a chemical in foods and drinks. Just because you had contact with a carcinogen doesn't mean that you'll get cancer. Your chance of getting sick depends on how much you've been exposed to and your genes also play a role. There are 10 common carcinogens you should know:

Tobacco
   It doesn't matter whether you're a smoker or breathing in someone else's smoke. At least 70 chemicals in tobacco are known to cause cancer by damaging your DNA. Smokeless tobacco may seem safer, but it can lead to cancer, too.

Radon
   This gas occurs in small amounts in nature. If it builds up indoors and you breathe it in, radon breaks down the lining of your lungs. It's the No. 1 cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. You can't see or smell radon, but a special test can check the levels in your home.

Asbestos
   The tough, tiny fibers in asbestos help strengthen products like roof shingles, ceiling tiles, and car parts. Yet if these fibers break free and you breathe them in, they can get lodged inside your lungs. Asbestos is a carcinogen. If you come into contact with it at your job, wear protective gear. If it's in your home and needs to be removed.

Formaldehyde
From plywood to some fabrics, this chemical is used in many household products. Studies found that formaldehyde can cause cancer. Before buying any wood products or furniture for your home, find out if they contain formaldehyde. Air out your house every day and keep humidity levels low with an air conditioner or dehumidifier.

Ultraviolet Rays
Studies show that ultraviolet (UV) rays, whether from the sun or a tanning bed, get absorbed into your skin and damage the cells there. Most skin cancer cases are due to UV rays. Pollution and climate change make these rays stronger. To stay safe, protect your skin with sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses.

Alcohol
The more alcohol you drink, the greater your odds of getting certain kinds of cancers, such as: Head and neck, Esophageal, Breast, Liver, Colorectal. One of reasons for this may be carcinogenic chemicals produced when beer, wine, and hard liquor are made.

Processed Meat
Bacon, salami, pepperoni, sausage any meat that's been preserved or flavored can raise the chances of getting colon cancer. Eating processed meat every once in a while maybe fine, but limit how much processed meat you have as much as you can. Try to limit foods that have been salted, fermented, cured or smoked.

Engine Exhaust
Trucks, buses, trains, and even some cars run on diesel fuel. The gas and soot in diesel engine exhaust are believed to cause lung cancer and other types of cancer.When you can, avoid idling in traffic or spending time next to diesel-run vehicles.

Air Pollution
Aside from exhaust, polluted outdoor air contains dust and traces of metals and solvents that can lead to cancer. You can't avoid pollution, but you can do your part to avoid contributing to it by walking or biking instead of driving. Stay indoors on days when air quality is bad.

Prevent cancer-causing substances

The basic approach to prevent cancer-causing substances is to protect workers from occupational carcinogens. It is either to eliminate the use of the material or to control exposure to a level where the risk is acceptably small. Outside of the workplace, people can also take steps to limit their exposure to known carcinogens, such as quitting smoking, limiting sun exposure, limiting alcohol drinking, or, for those of the appropriate age, having HPV and HBV vaccination.