The
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 14th Report on Human Carcinogens
was released today bringing the total to 248.
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| Image courtesy: Pixabay |
The 5
viruses include human immunodeficiency virus type 1, human T-cell lymphotropic
virus type 1, Epstein-Barr virus, Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, and
Merkel cell polyomavirus. People with weak immunity or on immunosuppression
drugs are more likely to develop these cancers.
Linda
Birnbaum, Ph.D., director of the National Institute of Environmental Health
Sciences (NIEHS) and National Toxicology Program (NTP) said in a press release
that "Given that approximately 12 percent of human cancers worldwide may
be attributed to viruses, and there are no vaccines currently available for
these five viruses, prevention strategies to reduce the infections that can
lead to cancer are even more critical."[1]
These
viruses are responsible for causing 20 different cancers in humans. All the
viruses are transmitted through body fluids and saliva. In addition, 3 out of 5
are also spread because of unprotected sexual activity namely human immunodeficiency
virus type 1, human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 and Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV).
The chemical
in the list is Trichloroethylene (TCE),
It is an industrial solvent used primarily to make hydrofluorocarbon chemicals,
especially refrigerants. Earlier it was in the list of suspected carcinogen but
recent studies have proved causation between TCE exposure and an increased risk
for kidney cancer. It makes its way into air, water and soil at places where
it is manufactured or used. People can be exposed by multiple routes especially
underground drinking sources. It’s especially abundant in soil and water in military
areas and practice grounds.
The metallic element listed as carcinogen is cobalt and cobalt compounds
that release ions into the body. Cobalt is a natural occurring element used
in military equipment and rechargeable batteries. Humans can be exposed to it
at workplace and due to failed surgical implants.
In our body cobalt is present as an important component of vitamin B-12,
also called cobalamin which plays a key role in
normal functioning of nervous system and needed for erythropoiesis. However, it
is not toxic in our body since it is chemically bound to protein and does not
release cobalt ions in the body.
All these cancers can be prevented by minimizing the exposure to the
listed carcinogens. Dr. Linda Birnbaum quoted in the news release “The listings
in this report, particularly the viruses, bring attention to the important role
that prevention can play in reducing the world's cancer burden. There are also
things people can do to reduce their exposure to cobalt and TCE.”
As always practicing safe sex, not sharing needles and contacting your
health care provider if you have been already exposed to any of the viruses listed
goes a long way in minimizing your risk for cancers due to these viruses.[2]
Exposure to TCE can be reduced at work places and military settlements by
wearing protective gear and properly using respirators. If it is known to be
present in the underground water sources than such water should not be used for
drinking. [3]
Cobalt exposure can be reduced by using the same measures that for TCE.
In addition, children living near the dumpsites containing cobalt should wash
their hands frequently before eating.[4]
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