We at Lumen Haelo are interested in learning some of the causes of cancer and also the solutions. We are giving bite size pieces of that information to try to make it is easy to digest. This is about the connection between inflammation and cancer.
Inflammation is basically your body’s natural defense system kicking into gear. When you get a cut, an infection, or any injury, your immune system sends out special cells. These cells and chemicals fight off invaders and start the healing process. You’ve probably noticed this as redness, swelling, warmth, or pain around an injury. This short-term, or “acute,” inflammation is actually good for you. It’s your body doing its job to protect you. It also helps you heal.
The problem comes with chronic inflammation. This is when your body’s inflammatory response stays turned on for months or even years. This can happen because of ongoing infections, autoimmune disorders, obesity, smoking, stress, or even a poor diet. When inflammation becomes chronic, it’s like having your immune system constantly on high alert. It releases chemicals that were meant to be temporary helpers. These chemicals end up sticking around and causing damage to your own tissues. Think of it like having a fire alarm that won’t turn off—eventually, it stops being helpful and starts causing problems.
Cancer becomes relevant when chronic inflammation exists. This ongoing inflammation can create an environment conducive to cancer development and spread. Inflammatory chemicals can damage your DNA over time. This damage is one of the key ways normal cells can turn into cancer cells. Plus, inflammation can help tumors grow by providing them with blood supply and nutrients. It can also help cancer cells hide from your immune system. Scientists estimate that chronic inflammation plays a role in about 15-20% of all cancers. For example, people with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases have a higher risk of colon cancer. Chronic hepatitis infections increase the risk of liver cancer.