At a chance family gathering, a relative talked about how he finally decided to go to the hospital for a check-up due to a long-term stomach pain, which resulted in a diagnosis of early-stage stomach cancer. His story not only shocked everyone in the room, but also sparked a profound discussion about health. The story reveals a truth that is often overlooked:Long-term inflammation can be the catalyst for cancer. Inflammation, a simple response we may think of as merely the body's response to injury or infection, actually plays a more complex and profound role in the formation of cancer.
Inflammation:Inflammation, essentially the body's self-protective response to injury or infection, involves the activation of the immune system and the mobilization of white blood cells and antibodies. In the short term, it is a beneficial mechanism to help repair damaged tissue and fight invaders. However, when inflammation persists and fails to return to a normal state, it becomes chronic inflammation that negatively affects the body and becomes a potential catalyst for several diseases.
Cancer:Cancer is defined by the abnormal growth and spread of cells that ignore normal growth control mechanisms and form tumors, sometimes invading other tissues. Cancer formation is a complex process that involves genetic and environmental factors, internal states including chronic inflammation.
Scientific studies have shown a deep link between chronic inflammation and cancer. Chronic inflammation provides an environment for cancer cells to grow and spread. This is achieved through several mechanisms:
Promoting mutations:A chronic inflammatory environment increases the risk of cellular DNA damage, which increases the likelihood of mutations that can lead to cancer.
Enhanced Survival Signals:Inflammation can promote the release of growth factors, cytokines, and other chemicals that support the survival and reproduction of cancer cells.
Promotes angiogenesis:Cancer needs nutrients to grow, and chronic inflammation provides the tumors with the nutrients and oxygen they need by promoting the formation of new blood vessels.
Be wary of indigestion behind it:Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, including gastritis and enteritis, is not only uncomfortable, but can also be a precursor to a more serious condition. The long-term inflammatory environment promotes cell mutations, increasing the risk of stomach and colon cancer. It is crucial to recognize these symptoms: recurrent stomach pain, indigestion, diarrhea or constipation, and weight loss for no apparent reason. A healthy diet and regular medical check-ups can help prevent these symptoms from becoming serious problems.
**Alarm:Chronic inflammation, such as psoriasis, not only affects appearance, but is more likely to be associated with certain types of cancer. These inflammatory diseases usually manifest as persistent erythema, desquamation, or dryness. While the problem may seem ordinary, a long-term inflammatory state is a cancer risk factor that should not be overlooked. This risk can be reduced by avoiding excessive sun exposure, staying moist, and adopting an anti-inflammatory lifestyle.
Dull pelvic pain:Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease, including cervicitis, is often overlooked because its symptoms can be easily confused with other problems. Constant pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding or discharge can be a sign of chronic inflammation in the body. This ongoing inflammatory environment increases the risk of cervical and ovarian cancer. Regular check-ups and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination are key to prevention.
Building a Protective Wall: A Lifestyle Preventative Measure
Preventing chronic inflammation and reducing cancer risk starts with a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as deep-sea fish, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains can significantly reduce inflammation levels. Regular physical activity not only improves physical health, but also reduces inflammation. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are all effective ways to reduce the risk of chronic inflammation.
Early detection, early **: the power of early diagnosis
Early diagnosis is key to preventing inflammation from evolving into cancer. For inflammation of the digestive tract, regular gastroscopy or colonoscopy can detect abnormalities early. Inflammation should be checked regularly by a medical professional, especially if the lesion persists or changes. For ** disease, regular Pap smears and HPV screening are essential. When the above symptoms of inflammation are recognized, prompt medical attention is the best strategy to prevent the condition from worsening.