New Study Links Inflammation to Cancer Risk
A groundbreaking study from Stanford University has uncovered nearly 400 genetic variations that could influence cancer risk, reinforcing the long-suspected link between inflammation and the disease. This discovery brings hope for improved genetic testing and future treatments that could help those at risk take preventative action and reduce delayed cancer diagnosis compensation claims.
How DNA Influences Cancer Risk
Genes are composed of thousands of individual building blocks of DNA. Even a single change in a nucleotide can alter how genes function, potentially increasing susceptibility to cancer.
Led by Dr. Laura Kellman, researchers at Stanford focused on inherited genetic sequences rather than mutations that occur over a lifetime. They identified almost 400 single nucleotide variants (SNVs) linked to the 13 most common types of cancer, including:
This pioneering research, published in Nature Genetics, provides crucial insight into how genetic variations can initiate and drive cancer development.
Key Findings: Inflammation Role in Cancer
One of the most significant discoveries was how these genetic variants influence biological pathways, particularly those involved in:
- DNA repair the body’s ability to fix damaged cells
- Cellular energy production controlled by mitochondria, the power plants of cells
- Cell death regulation ensuring faulty cells self-destruct instead of multiplying
- Inflammation which, when chronic, may increase cancer risk
Inflammation: A Double-Edged Sword
Inflammation is a natural defence mechanism against injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation often caused by obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, or autoimmune diseases can become harmful, keeping the immune system in a constant state of overactivation.
This study suggests that communication between cancer cells and the immune system could drive long-term inflammation, increasing the likelihood of cancer development.
What This Means for the Future of Cancer Prevention
Professor Paul Khavari, senior author of the study, believes this research will pave the way for:
- More accurate genetic screening tests helping individuals assess their lifetime cancer risk
- New treatment strategies targeting inflammation-related pathways
- Lifestyle interventions empowering those at risk to make healthier choices
Seeking Support for Delayed Cancer Diagnosis
While this research offers hope for the future, delays in cancer diagnosis and referrals remain a serious concern. Early detection is critical, and those who feel let down by the medical profession should seek expert legal advice. If you or a loved one have experienced a delayed cancer diagnosis, specialist solicitors can provide support and guidance.
For expert legal assistance, contact Hutcheon Law today if the medical support has failed you to find out about your legal rights to make a claim for delayed cancer diagnosis compensation.
For more detailed information, you can access the full study published in Nature Genetics here.
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