Is cancer contagious?
Nov 28, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Qi Zhirong
Introduction
Cancer itself is not an infectious disease and does not possess the three essential elements required for infectious diseases: pathogens, routes of transmission, and susceptible populations. Cancer is a malignant tumor originating from epithelial tissue, arising from abnormal changes during cell replication and proliferation caused by alterations, damage, or external carcinogenic factors affecting the genetic material.
Generally speaking, cancer is not directly contagious. If you feel unwell, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Cancer itself is not an infectious disease and lacks the three essential elements of communicable diseases: pathogens, transmission routes, and susceptible populations. Cancer is a malignant tumor originating from epithelial tissues, caused by abnormal changes during cell replication and proliferation due to alterations or damage in genetic material or exposure to external carcinogenic factors. These abnormal changes enable cells to proliferate uncontrollably, eventually forming a tumor. Therefore, cancer cannot be transmitted from person to person through contact, air, food, or other means.
Although cancer itself is not contagious, the development of cancer may be associated with viral or bacterial infections. For example, infection with hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus is closely related to the occurrence of liver cancer, and human papillomavirus infection is associated with gynecological cancers such as cervical cancer. These viruses or bacteria can be transmitted between individuals through sexual contact, blood transmission, and other routes.
It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle in daily life, including balanced nutrition, appropriate physical activity, avoiding exposure to adverse environments and harmful substances, and undergoing regular medical check-ups to help prevent the development of cancer.
