Comprehensive looks at a study regarding the risks posed by viruses and bacterial threats in elevating cancer risks, as well as ways to reduce those risks.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers is sharing a recent story regarding a report from scientists at the American Association for Cancer Research that highlights risks posed by viral and bacterial threats, which include human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis in its various types (A, B, C, D and E), and Helicobacter pylori.
What is Hepatitis and How Can One Reduce Risks?
According to the World Health Organization, hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a variety of infectious viruses and noninfectious agents leading to a range of health problems, some of which include cancer. The five main strains of hepatitis virus all cause liver disease. They differ in important ways including modes of transmission, severity of the illness, geographical distribution and prevention methods.
Reducing risks for hepatitis include getting, vaccinated, practicing safe sex including using condoms consistently and correctly, avoiding sharing needles or any items that may have come into contact with blood.
For those who may be considering getting tattoos, ensure that any establishment uses sterile equipment and follows proper hygiene practices. It’s important to know that you can get hepatitis C from tattoo ink if the tattoo artist doesn’t use small separate containers of ink for each client. If a tattoo artist dips a needle into one big container they’ve used on other clients, there is a high risk of contaminated blood coming into contact with your blood.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Hepatitis A and B. If you have any concerns about hepatitis, consult your personal doctor. They can provide further advice and recommend necessary testing and/or vaccinations.
Food Safety and Cancer Risks
Food illnesses focus on Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) as a primary cause. H. pylori is recognized as the main cause of peptic ulcers, particularly duodenal ulcers. When the bacteria colonize the stomach lining, they induce an inflammatory response that disrupts the mucus layer protecting the stomach wall from acid. This disruption allows acid to damage the stomach or duodenal lining, leading to ulcers. Common symptoms of an H. pylori-related ulcer include stomach pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, bleeding.
Chronic H. pylori infection has been associated with gastric cancer, particularly adenocarcinoma of the stomach and MALT (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma. The bacterium’s ability to cause chronic inflammation and alter the stomach’s cellular environment increases the risk of malignant changes.
The USDA recommends preventing food borne illness by following these four easy steps: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill.
- Clean: Wash hands and all preparation and cook surfaces often.
- Separate: Don’t cross-contaminate foods such as raw chicken and uncooked vegetables.
- Cook: Cook all foods to proper temperatures.
- Chill: Refrigerate promptly after food has reached room temperature
The USDA stresses thorough handwashing at all times before, during and after eating food. When dining out be especially cautious with undercooked or raw foods.
HPV and Reducing Cancer Risks
Comprehensive has written extensively on the benefits of age and circumstance appropriate-HPV vaccinations. Clinical trials have shown that HPV vaccines are highly effective in preventing cervical, vaginal and vulvar infection with the types of HPV they target when given before first exposure to the virus—that is, before individuals begin to engage in sexual activity.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers Can Help
Physicians at Comprehensive Cancer Centers provide a variety of treatment options for patients with cancer. To schedule an appointment at Comprehensive, call 702-952-3350.
The content is this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.