CARCINOGENESIS AND PUBLIC HEALTH -

Publish in the Journal of carcinogenesis

Despite the advances in the treatment of cancer and the increasing knowledge of the processes responsible for the disease, there is a gap in the understanding of molecular events leading to cancer and the mechanisms of action by anticancer agents

The field of carcinogenesis is far from being completely explored. Many novel ideas and concepts still need to be introduced into the field, and the results of several provocative experiments are yet to be disseminated and shared. There is a need for multidisciplinary research in the field and a forum for accelerated publication of results.

CARCINOGENESIS AND PUBLIC HEALTH

Linkage between environment and cancer incidence has been widely debated and researched in the past several decades. Cancer is not a single disease; it comprises of over hundred different diseases, depending on the tissue affected. Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth due to specific genetic alterations (mutations). In general, cancer arises as a result of interaction between environment and individual genetic predisposition. Many countries across the world are becoming more and more industrialized and people are adapting western lifestyles that are "carcino-promoting".

To date, some of the known environmental factors that can confer cancer risk are: tobacco use, infectious agents, radiation (x-rays and UV), environmental pollutants and obesity. Changes in patterns of cancer incidence around seem to reflect the changes in lifestyles of individuals, which suggest that cancer is a preventable disease. The most pressing challenge to date for scientists and health policy-makers is to develop and launch measures that will effectively prevent cancer incidence. Research on factors that initiate or promote transformation of normal cells into malignant cells has a significant and direct impact on public health and therefore has public health policy imperative.

Carcinogenesis Foundation likes to spread awareness and provide education to people on risks of cancer incidence and cancer prevention opportunities. Carcinogenesis Foundation likes to provide a platform for researchers, policymakers, health activists as well as general public so that knowledge and commitment for cancer prevention can be generated, shared and disseminated.

We invite opinions and discussions on wide-ranging topics of interest to general public as well as professionals in the field; the topics of interest include

1) Environmental carcinogens, DNA damage and carcinogenesis
2) Environmental and dietary hormones (ex: from meat and milk) and canrcinogenesis,
3) Diet, carcinogenesis and carcinoprevention: facts and myths
4) Health impact of environmental carcinogenesis on ageing and cancer
5) Legislative imperatives for controlling cancer epidemic in developing and developed countries
6) Public health strategies and support for carcinoprevention efforts

Please send us your thoughts, opinions and ideas to make this section an educational section. We look forward to your active participation. Please write to info@carciknowgenesis.org

WHO Recommendations for Cancer Prevention

Maintain weight (among adults) such that BMI is in the range of 18.5-24.9 kg/m2 and avoid weight gain (>5 kg) during adult life.
Maintain regular physical activity. The primary goal should be to perform physical activity on most days of the week; 60 minutes per day of moderate-intensity activity, such as walking, may be needed to maintain healthy body weight in otherwise sedentary people. More vigorous activity, such as fast walking, may give some additional benefits for cancer prevention.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages is not recommended: if consumed, do not exceed two units per day.
Chinese-style fermented salted fish should only be consumed in moderation, especially during childhood. Overall consumption of salt-preserved foods and salt should be moderate.
Minimize exposure to aflatoxin in foods.
Have a diet which includes at least 400 g per day of total fruits and vegetables.
Those who are not vegetarian are advised to moderate consumption of preserved meat (e.g. sausages, salami, bacon, ham).
Do not consume foods or drinks when they are at a very hot (scalding hot) temperature.

Lifestyle and Cancer incidence (Source: National Cancer Institute, USA)

30-35% of cancers are related to dietary factors

Sedentarism is an important cause of cancer

30% of cancers are related to smoking
Obesity is related to 14-20% of cancers in the US

Alcohol is resposible for about 3% of cancer deaths

Environmental factors, such as pollution and radiation, are contributors to cancer

En estimated 90% of colorectal cancers could be prevented by colonoscopy and other early detection testes

Early detection can decrease mortality by cervical, prostate and breast cancer.