title: Random mutations' role in cancer.
abstract: In a new study, scientists have quantified the somatic mutation theory of cancer by comparing stem-cell division rates in different tumors with the lifetime risk of cancer in corresponding tissues. They found a strong correlation, suggesting that two thirds of the variation in cancer risk in these tissues can be explained by random mutations that occur as stem cells divide.
mesh_terms: D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D009154:Mutation; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*