Cancer Causes: Diet, lifestyle and genetic factors are usually discussed regarding cancer, but some infections can also increase the risk of cancer in the long run. Statistics related to India have revealed that a large number of cancer cases every year may be related to such infections, which are possible to prevent or control in time.
Some infections remain in the body for a long time
Not every infection causes cancer. The concern is about infections that can persist in the body for a long time and continuously affect cells. Such changes that occur over time may increase the risk of cancer in some people. For this reason, identification of infection and its proper treatment is considered important.
Cervical cancer is linked to this virus in women
Human papilloma virus (HPV) is considered one of the major infection-related causes of cervical cancer. This infection can be quite common and in many cases the body controls it on its own. However, the risk may increase if the infection persists for a long time. For this reason, vaccination and necessary tests as per medical advice are considered important.
Role of infection in stomach and liver cancer also
Some bacteria and viruses have also been found to be associated with an increased risk of stomach and liver cancer. A bacteria called Helicobacter pylori can remain present in the stomach for a long time and can cause problems in the inner lining of the stomach. Similarly, viruses like hepatitis B and C affect the liver and prolonged infection can increase the risk of serious disease.
Vaccination and timely testing necessary for prevention (Cancer Causes)
In case of infection-associated cancer, there is a margin of safety. Vaccines available to prevent HPV and hepatitis B can be taken as per the doctor’s advice. Apart from this, it is also important to get health checkup done as per need. If stomach problems, abnormal symptoms or any infection persists for a long time, then it is better to consult a doctor instead of ignoring it.
An important thing: Every infection does not mean cancer.
Just because a person has an infection does not mean that he or she will get cancer. Cancer risk depends on many different factors. Therefore, instead of panicking after seeing any report or data, it is more sensible to take proper advice from the doctor and take necessary preventive steps.