Study Confirms Smoking Causes DNA Mutations Linked to Cancer
Recent research has once again reaffirmed the harmful effects of smoking on DNA, demonstrating its potential to induce mutations and increase the risk of cancer. The presence of toxic substances and hazardous compounds in cigarette smoke leads to alterations in DNA, specifically “stop-gain mutations,” which disrupt the production of key proteins that protect against cancer.
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto analyzed over 12,000 tumor samples from 18 different cancer types. Their findings established a clear link between smoking and the presence of stop-gain mutations, particularly prevalent in lung cancer. The study also revealed that as tobacco consumption increased, so did the production of these detrimental mutations.
Lead researcher Nina Adler, a doctoral candidate, emphasized the significance of understanding the molecular mechanisms behind the link between smoking and cancer. While the connection is well-known, comprehending how lifestyle choices affect cancer risk is crucial.
Furthermore, the study highlights the need for further research into the detrimental effects of other factors such as alcohol consumption and poor diet on DNA. However, previous studies have already established the unequivocal link between smoking and cancer.
The chemicals present in tobacco smoke, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and nitrosamines, directly bind to DNA, inducing mutations and disrupting normal cellular processes. Smoking also generates high levels of reactive oxygen species and free radicals, which cause oxidative damage to DNA. Additionally, smoking accelerates telomere shortening, a process associated with cellular aging and various diseases.
Moreover, smoking can induce epigenetic alterations, which modify the DNA structure and impact gene expression. These changes have lasting effects on health and can potentially be transmitted to future generations.
The study, published in the journal Science Advances, underlines the significant health risks associated with smoking and emphasizes the importance of quitting or avoiding smoking as the most prudent choice.
(Photo : ANDREJ IVANOV/AFP via Getty Images)
This photo illustration shows a man holding a cigarette on August 1, 2023, in Montreal, Canada.
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