One in five malignant cancers in humans are directly linked to microbial infections caused by bacteria, parasites and viruses. Why? Will ask. What do microbes have to do with cancer development?
To begin with, some bacteria can produce toxins, enzymes and other molecules that alter normal cellular functions, interfere with the control of the cell cycle and alter the immune response of the host, which contributes to the appearance and progression of cancer. For example, 89 % of all gastric cancers They are attributed to infection by bacteria Helicobacter pyloriand it is known that the eradication of this infection reduces the incidence of the tumor.
As for viruses, they are able to insert their genetic material into host cells, which can cause uncontrolled cell growth and cause chronic inflammation that damages DNA and Promotes cancer development. This is the case of oncogenic viruses such as the Human Herpes 8 (VHH-8), Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), the lymphotropic virus of Type 1 Human T human cells (HTLV-1), Epstein-Barr virus (VEB), hepatitis B viruses (HBB) and C (VHC) and the virus of the virus of Human Papilloma (HPV).
Kaposi and Herpe Sarcoma
The Human Herpes 8 (VHH-8) is the main responsible for the Kaposi sarcoma, which affects the skin, the lymph nodes, the lining of the mouth, the nose and the throat and other tissues of the body. The HHV-8 transmission Through saliva and genital secretions they seem to be the main infection route.
People with a compromised immune system have a greater risk of developing diseases associated with VHH-8. Performing unprotected sex increases the possibilities of contracting the virus.
When the change in the shape or color of a mole is a bad signal
As for Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPYV), it has been related to Merkel cell carcinoma, unusual and aggressive skin cancer.
In recent years, the incidence of this condition has increased significantly. The most frequent areas of appearance of the primary tumor of Merkel cell carcinoma are the face, head and neckfollowed by the upper limbs and shoulders.
One of the most effective prophylactic measures to prevent the appearance of Merkel cell carcinoma is to reduce sun exposure, avoid hours of greater ultraviolet radiation and use sunscreen.
Early detection is key to a successful treatment, so it is advisable to consult a doctor if any change in the size, shape or color of a lunar or bump is manifested.
A virus that causes leukemia
The type 1 lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the first human retrovirus described and the Etiological agent of adult T cell leukemiaa very serious way of cancer. Lymphoma/lymphoblastic lymphemic of T cells, which can be considered as a lymphoma or a type of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, represents 1 % of all lymphomas and is usually more common in adolescents or young adults.
People diagnosed with HTLV-1 infection should know that it lasts a lifetime and that they should not donate blood, semen or other fabrics. The mandatory antibody detection against HTLV-1 for all blood donations has been implemented in 23 countries.
Cancer after mononucleosis
Epstein-Barr virus (VEB) causes infectious mononucleosis and is related to various types of cancersuch as Burkitt’s lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, among others. Although the majority of the population is infected by the Epstein-Barr virus (VEB), only a small fraction develops tumors related to it. This suggests that additional factors for cancer development are required.
Recent research They indicate that exposure to agents such as tobacco, pollutants, food chemicals and pesticides could be involved in these cancers associated with the VEB.
Of liver cancer hepatitis
Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses cause chronic hepatitis, a liver inflammation that can lead to cirrhosis and, eventually, eventually In liver cancer (hepatecellular carcinoma).
Hepatitis B (HBB) virus infection is the most prominent risk factor for developing hepathocellular carcinoma: it causes 50 % of cases. VHB vaccination and the treatment of hepatitis C are crucial to prevent this type of cancer.
The calculations estimate that the hepatitis B vaccine will prevent 38 million deaths Throughout the life of people born between 2000 and 2030 in 98 low and medium -sized income countries.
If you have hepatitis B, it is crucial to lead a healthy lifestyle to prevent the disease from worse. This includes avoiding alcohol and drugs, resting enough, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and exercising regularly.
In addition, it is important to undergo periodic medical check -ups to monitor the virus and liver health, follow the specialists’s instructions and consult the doctor before taking any free sale medication.
Human papillomavirus causes 5 % of cancers
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with almost all cases of cervical cancer. It is also responsible for most anus, penis, vulva, vagina cancers and a great proportion of mouth and throat cancers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 5 % of cancers are caused by Human papillomavirus infections.
The HPV vaccination It is one of the most important and effective prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of various types of cancers and genital warts. For example, numerous studies have shown that this immunization has an efficacy of up to 95 % in the prevention of precancerous cervix lesions related to various types of HPV. The vaccination guideline from the age of 12 is 2 doses with a separation of at least 5-6 months.
Luckily, Mass General Brigham researchers (USA) have developed HPV-deEpseek, An innovative and experimental blood analysis which uses artificial intelligence and sequencing of the complete genome of HPV to detect head and neck cancer associated with HPV up to ten years before the symptoms appear. This test, even in an experimental phase, promises to improve the prognosis of patients by allowing an earlier and less intrusive treatment.
Understanding the role, the form of transmission and the mode of action of carcinogenic viruses is essential to establish prevention measures that reduce the social, economic and health impact caused by these pathogens.
