|
|
Article: The etiology of cancer.(Clinical report)
- Article from:
- Journal of Continuing Education Topics & Issues
- Article date:
- August 1, 2007
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2007 American Medical Technologists. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
One aspect of the transformation of a normal cell into a malignant cell is the action of an initiator. An initiator is a chemical, biologic or physical agent, capable of permanently, directly and irreversibly changing the molecular structure of the cell's genetic component (DNA). Viral, environmental or life style, as well as genetic factors have all been identified as initiators of carcinogenesis. Known substances of factors include:
1. Chemicals
a. industrial
b. therapeutic
c. life style
2. Radiation
a. ultraviolet