World Cancer Day 2025: When we celebrate another year of World Cancer Day, it is important to quit light on the lesser known causes of cancer. According to Dr. Sean Nag, senior medical oncologist and oncology director, Sahyadri Super Specialty Hospital, Pune, aging can be the main cause of cancer. Also Read World Cancer Day: Breaking myths to understand the disease
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, D -Ra Son Nag said: “Aging is a highly recognized risk factor from critical shifts as well as cellular modifications as well as molecular mechanisms. In the elderly, these changes increase the chances of cancer and Cancer and prevention are impeded.
How is the aging and cancer associated?
Biological mechanisms: As we age, our bodies are undergoing several changes that can increase the risk of cancer. One of the significant changes is cellular aging, where the cells stop dividing but do not die. These cells secrete substances that cause inflammation and can make the body more sensitive to cancer. At the same time, our ability to restore DNA damage is weakening, leading to genetic mutations that can disrupt both cell function and potentially causing cancer. Also Read World Cancer Day 2025: Can there be too much impact in the sun lead to lip cancer? Doctor explains early signs, prevention tips
Genetic factors: Some people are born with genes that make them become more likely to become cancer. As these people age, the combined consequences of being in harmful conditions and their genetic makeup can increase their chances of cancer development.
Hormonal changes: Aging is associated with changes in hormone levels such as estrogen and testosterone, which were associated with increased risk of developing some cancer, including breast cancer and prostate.
Short telomer: Telamers are similar to the protective tips at the ends of our chromosomes that enter each cell in our body. Each time the cell divides, these tips become a little shorter. With age, they can become so short that they no longer effectively protect the chromosomes. This can lead to cell malfunction or become aging, that is, they stop dividing, but do not die. These old cells can promote cancer.
A decrease in autophagy: With age, our cells become less effective in a process called Autophagy, and this is how they cleanse damaged parts and proteins. If this cleaning process also does not work, it can lead to cellular debris and damaged DNA. Over time, this accumulation may increase the risk of cancer.
Accumulation of environmental influences: Throughout life, it is exposed to harmful agents such as tobacco smoke, ultraviolet radiation and pollutants, can increase the risk of cancer. With age, our body becomes less effective in restoring the damage that these agents apply. This leads to a greater likelihood of developing abnormalities in our cells, which can lead to cancer.
How to prevent cancer caused by aging?
Lifestyle modifications: Your risk of cancer is increasing, consuming a lot of processed food and red meat. However, the risk can be softened by eating enough fruits, as well as vegetables and whole grains. In addition, it is always engaged in sports and other physical activity increases the immune system, improves healthy body weight and inflammation. The reduction of alcohol consumption, as well as the avoidance of smoking works of miracles, greatly avoiding different types of cancer, especially since tobacco is very related to the disease. Also Read World Cancer Day 2025: Cancer is distributed from person to person? Here are 4 most common myths and facts about the disease
Regular examination and observation: Early cancer identification leads to a better treatment result. Thus, take the necessary steps to detect the disease in the early stages. Regular examination is crucial for those who are more sensitive, such as obtaining mammograms, colonoscopy and skin check.
Vaccination: Vaccines that prevent viral rivers, such as human papilloma vaccine (HPV) and hepatitis B vaccine are important cancer prevention tools.
Refusal: This article is intended only for information purposes rather than to replace professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a doctor with any medical issues.
