[37] Using this approach, the most important tumorigenic compounds in tobacco smoke were, in order of importance, acrolein, formaldehyde, acrylonitrile, 1,3-butadiene, cadmium, acetaldehyde, ethylene oxide, and isoprene. [11], Higher-energy radiation, including ultraviolet radiation (present in sunlight), x-rays, and gamma radiation, generally is carcinogenic, if received in sufficient doses. The World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) listing of processed meat such as bacon and cold cuts as a “Group 1” carcinogen—the same group that [44]) indicate that the bile acids deoxycholic acid (DCA) or lithocholic acid (LCA) induce production of DNA-damaging reactive oxygen species or reactive nitrogen species in human or animal colon cells. [38] Estrogen appears to contribute to breast carcinogenesis by three processes; (1) the metabolism of estrogen to genotoxic, mutagenic carcinogens, (2) the stimulation of tissue growth, and (3) the repression of phase II detoxification enzymes that metabolize ROS leading to increased oxidative DNA damage. 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Send us feedback. After the carcinogen enters the body, the body makes an attempt to eliminate it through a process called biotransformation. [42] These derivatives can cause dupurination, the removal of bases from the phosphodiester backbone of DNA, followed by inaccurate repair or replication of the apurinic site leading to mutation and eventually cancer. For example, some alkenes are toxicated by human enzymes to produce an electrophilic epoxide. [43] In addition, substantial evidence implicates bile acids as an important factor in colon cancer. A carcinogen is a substance, mixture or agent that can cause cancer or it increases the risk of developing cancer. Learn more. A carcinogen is any substance /product / chemical that has the potential to cause cancer. Risk estimates for lung cancer in the United States indicate that tobacco smoke is responsible for 90% of lung cancers. Though there are many things that are believed to cause cancer, a substance is only considered carcinogenic if there is significant evidence of its carcinogenicity. Furthermore, 14 studies showed that DCA and LCA induce DNA damage in colon cells. This can be a chemical substance, a virus, or even the medications and radiation we use to treat cancer. Cancer and aging as consequences of un-repaired DNA damage. Miller-Keane Encyclopedia and Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health, Seventh Edition. 2. causing cancer. The European Union classification of carcinogens is contained in the Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Preserved meat such as bacon, sausages, and ham increases the risk while a diet high in fresh fruit and vegetables may reduce the risk. See the full definition for carcinogen in the English Language Learners Dictionary, Nglish: Translation of carcinogen for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of carcinogen for Arabic Speakers, Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about carcinogen. Carcinogen definition is - a substance or agent causing cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified some 60 substances and processes as probably or definitely carcinogenic in humans. [citation needed] In contrast, non-electromagnetic neutron radiation produced inside nuclear reactors can produce secondary radiation through nuclear transmutation. © 2003 by Saunders, an imprint … While many cancers are caused by a carcinogen or combination of carcinogens, the tendency (genetic predisposition) to develop cancer may also be inherited as part of our genome. “Carcinogen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carcinogen. 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