The cancer problem--carcinogenesis and prevention from the viewpoint of the natural history of cancer.
Cancer is mostly environmental in origin and therefore is theoretically preventable by control of environmental conditions. From the viewpoint of the natural history of cancer, the multi-step nature of neoplasia and the generally long latent period are stressed. The molecular biology of cancer tells us that neoplasia is a disease of the genes, with each tumor having its own series of gene alterations. Numerous carcinogens, mutagens and others, have been identified, and we are now in a good position to promote cancer prevention. The aim is to postpone clinical manifestation of latent cancer to an older age, and has two aspects: one is elimination of carcinogens from the environment and the other is active efforts to improve the lifestyle and develop effective chemopreventive agents. For understanding of prevention, elucidation of molecular mechanisms of interactions between genes and environmental or dietary compounds for each cancer is essential.
Sugano
H
H
Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Japan.
D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D004777:Environment; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control
D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents