What causes cancer in the body? Recently, I was listening to a radio show and one of the things they said was that researchers have found that cancer happens just because of bad luck – and not necessarily because of other factors. I was quite shocked when I’ve heard that, especially on a radio show because based on my experience in the clinic, I really beg to differ and thought I would write this blog to clarify a few things about what can cause cancer, amongst other details.

So to put this in very simple terms: CANCER arises in the body as a result of DNA damage / mutation, which in turn causes abnormal cell growths creating masses, nodules and tumors. What causes DNA damage / mutations in cells?  Well, while we do not exactly know what causes the cell damage that initiates the cancer process, but we do know that a combination of genetic, behavioral, environmental and lifestyle factors can contribute to the cell damage and DNA damage, causes growth of cancer cells.

Here are some of the top contributing factors that can cause cell and DNA abnormalities, which can eventually lead to cancer:

– Poor Lifestyle and Diet (Smoking, obesity, diet high in nitrates and low in fiber, lack of exercise)

– Exposure to toxins / carcinogens in the work environment and pollution

– Genetics and Family History

– Exposure to certain virus and bacteria (such as HPV and H. Pylori)

– Reproductive health

– Alcohol consumption

There is a huge variety of cancers, with different causes, symptoms and their degree of malignancy. Most fall into one of the four categories:

1. Lymphomas – affecting the lymphatic system.

2. Carcinomas (most common ones) – affecting the skin, glands, organs and mucous membranes.

3. Leukemias – Cancers that affect the blood cells and blood forming tissues.

4. Sarcomas – affecting muscles, bones and connective tissues.

Alternative therapies that may help with cancer

There are various alternative therapies that are available for prevention against cancer, as well, maintaining optimum health and wellness during and after treatments. What works well for one may be adverse for another, and hence some treatments are very successful for one but not another. Keeping this statement in mind, talk to your naturopathic doctor and your medical doctor to see what combination may work best for you. Prevention and optimum health in terms of mind, body and spirit are key for a healthy balance.

If you avoid cancer causing substances and keep your body healthy, you have at least a better chance of successfully conquering the outcome, regardless of what that looks like.  It is imperative to be proactive with your health and wellness in this day and age, where we are constantly exposed to various kinds of stresses (ranging from diet to work to pollution to viruses, among others), which can compromise our immune system and affect our well being. If we do not have a strong defense system, chances are something will change within our body – and the first one to take a hit is our health!

By: SUSHMA SHAH, Toronto Naturopathic Doctor.