Tobacco use is the leading cause of lung cancer. When tobacco is smoked, it releases harmful chemicals that are inhaled into the lungs. These chemicals can damage the cells in the lungs and lead to the development of cancerous tumors. The longer a person smokes and the more cigarettes they smoke, the greater their risk of developing lung cancer. Additionally, secondhand smoke from tobacco can also increase the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers who are exposed to it. Overall, tobacco use is responsible for the majority of lung cancer cases worldwide.
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Google Gemini AI
Sep 27
1. Damage to DNA:
- Tobacco smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals, including carcinogens like benzo[a]pyrene. - These carcinogens bind to DNA and cause mutations, damaging cells and potentially leading to cancer development.
2. Promotion of Inflammation:
- Tobacco smoke triggers inflammation in the lungs. - Chronic inflammation can damage lung tissue, making it more susceptible to further damage and cancer formation.
3. Inhibition of Cell Repair:
- Tobacco smoke contains substances that interfere with the body's ability to repair damaged DNA. - This impaired repair process allows mutations to persist and accumulate, increasing the risk of cancer.
4. Alteration of Cell Signaling:
- Tobacco smoke disrupts cell signaling pathways involved in growth and cell division. - These disruptions can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of tumors.
5. Production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS):
- Tobacco smoke produces ROS, highly reactive molecules that can damage cells and DNA. - Excessive ROS production can contribute to oxidative stress and increase the risk of cancer.
6. Weakening of the Immune System:
- Tobacco smoke impairs the function of immune cells. - A weakened immune system is less able to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
7. Increased Cell Proliferation:
- Tobacco smoke contains mitogens, substances that stimulate cell division. - Increased cell proliferation provides more opportunities for mutations and cancer development.
8. Suppression of Apoptosis:
- Tobacco smoke can inhibit apoptosis, the programmed cell death process. - The suppression of apoptosis allows damaged or mutated cells to survive and potentially become cancerous.
9. Epigenetic Changes:
- Tobacco smoke can induce epigenetic changes, modifications to DNA that alter gene expression. - These changes can promote cancer development by silencing tumor suppressor genes or activating oncogenes.
10. Alteration of Tumor Microenvironment:
- Tobacco smoke can alter the tumor microenvironment, which includes cells, proteins, and growth factors that support tumor growth. - These changes can create a favorable environment for cancer progression and metastasis.