The main reasons/risk factors for cancer can be classified as follows:
1. Genetic Factors
Many cancers are caused by genetic defects. Certain gene mutations passed from parents to children increase the risk of cancer (for example: breast cancer, prostate cancer).
2. Lifestyle factors
A wrong lifestyle plays a major role in increasing the risk of cancer today:
Smoking: Smoking is the main cause of cancers of the lungs, throat, and mouth. Carcinogens in tobacco damage DNA.
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of cancer in the liver, esophagus, and breast.
Diet: Excessive consumption of processed foods, excessive salt, and red meat increases the risk of colon cancer. In addition, a diet low in fruits and vegetables is a cause.
Lack of exercise & being overweight: Excessive weight gain causes hormonal changes and increases the risk of cancers of the breast, colon, uterus, etc.
3. Environmental factors
Chemicals: Long-term exposure to asbestos, benzene, and certain types of pesticides can cause cancer.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays: Excessive exposure to sunlight causes skin cancer.
Radiation: Excessive exposure to X-rays and CT scans can damage cells (although this is limited in medical uses).
