Seven viruses that can cause cancer

We share the following report from The Conversation regarding microbial infections that could lead to malignant cancers.

One in five malignant cancers in humans are directly linked to microbial infections caused by bacteria, parasites, and viruses. Why? you might ask. What do microbes have to do with the development of cancer?

For starters, some bacteria can produce toxins, enzymes, and other molecules that disrupt normal cellular functions, interfere with cell cycle control, and alter the host immune response, contributing to the development and progression of cancer. For example, 89% of all gastric cancers are attributed to infection by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, and it is known that eradication of this infection reduces the incidence of the tumor.

As for viruses, they are capable of inserting their genetic material into host cells, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cause chronic inflammation that damages DNA and promotes the development of cancerThis is the case of oncogenic viruses such as human herpes simplex virus 8 (HHV-8), Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses, and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Kaposi's sarcoma and herpes

Human herpes simplex virus 8 (HHV-8) is primarily responsible for Kaposi's sarcoma, which affects the skin, lymph nodes, lining of the mouth, nose, throat, and other tissues in the body. transmission of HHV-8 through saliva and genital secretions appear to be the main route of infection.

People with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of developing HIV-8-associated diseases. Unprotected sex increases the chances of contracting the virus.

When a change in the shape or color of a mole is a bad sign

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) has been linked to Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive skin cancer.

In recent years, the incidence of this condition has increased significantly. The most common areas of primary Merkel cell carcinoma tumor appearance are the face, head and neck, followed by the upper limbs and shoulders.

One of the most effective prophylactic measures to prevent the development of Merkel cell carcinoma is to reduce sun exposure, avoid peak ultraviolet radiation hours, and use sunscreen.

Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it's a good idea to see a doctor if you experience any changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole or bump.

A virus that causes leukemia

Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the first described human retrovirus and the etiologic agent of adult T-cell leukemia, a very serious form of cancer. T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia, which can be considered a lymphoma or a type of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, accounts for 1% of all lymphomas and is usually most common in adolescents or young adults.

People diagnosed with HTLV-1 infection should be advised that it is lifelong and that they should not donate blood, semen, or other tissues. Mandatory HTLV-1 antibody screening for all blood donations has been implemented in 23 countries.

Cancer after mononucleosis

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes infectious mononucleosis and is linked to various types of cancer, such as Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, among others. Although the majority of the population is infected with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), only a small fraction develops EBV-related tumors. This suggests that additional factors are required for cancer development.

Recent research indicate that exposure to agents such as tobacco, pollutants, chemicals in food, and pesticides could be involved in these EBV-associated cancers.

From hepatitis to liver cancer

Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses cause chronic hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that can lead to cirrhosis and eventually in liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the most prominent risk factor for developing hepatocellular carcinoma, accounting for 50% of cases. HBV vaccination and hepatitis C treatment are crucial for preventing this type of cancer.

Calculations estimate that the hepatitis B vaccine will prevent 38 million deaths throughout the lives of people born between 2000 and 2030 in 98 low- and middle-income countries.

If you have hepatitis B, it's crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent the disease from worsening. This includes avoiding alcohol and drugs, getting enough rest, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and exercising regularly.

In addition, it's important to undergo regular medical checkups to monitor the virus and liver health, follow specialist instructions, and consult your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications.

The 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 cancers of the anus, penis, vulva, vagina, and a large proportion of oral and throat cancers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 5% of cancers are caused by HPV. human papillomavirus infections.

La HPV vaccination It is one of the most important and effective prevention strategies for reducing the incidence of various types of cancer and genital warts. For example, numerous studies have shown that this immunization is up to 95% effective in preventing cervical precancerous lesions associated with various HPV types. The vaccination schedule for children 12 years and older is two doses spaced at least 5–6 months apart.

Fortunately, researchers at Mass General Brigham (USA) have developed HPV-DeepSeek, a innovative and experimental blood test This test uses artificial intelligence and whole-genome sequencing to detect HPV-associated head and neck cancer up to ten years before symptoms appear. This test, still in the experimental phase, promises to improve patient prognosis by enabling earlier and less intrusive treatment.

Understanding the role, transmission, and mode of action of cancer viruses is essential for establishing preventive measures that reduce the social, economic, and health impact caused by these pathogens.

Source: The Conversation