An adenocarcinoma is a cancer originating in glandular tissue. The cancer develops from epithelial cells that surround and line tissues of the body, as well as secretory gland cells. Patients can develop adenocarcinomas in a number of tissues including the breasts, lungs, prostate, colon or stomach. Advanced adenocarcinomas affect multiple tissues throughout the body. The causes of various carcinomas include internal and environmental factors.
Genetic Mutations
Central to the development of adenocarcinomas are genetic mutations to previously healthy cells. Each cell in the human body contains thousands of genes, many of which help govern a cell's behavior and response to its environment. Mutation to genes within epithelial gland cells can disrupt their behavior, allowing abnormal cell proliferation, unlimited cell replication and the ability to evade normal cell death--all steps in cancer development. Though the genetic profiles of adenocarcinomas differ on a case by case basis, cancer patients develop mutations that promote cancer growth while inhibiting the protective mechanisms that prevent the development of cancer. Doctors can screen for common mutations in adenocarcinomas to help devise an effective cancer treatment strategy.
Smoking
Smoking may also cause some types of adenocarcinomas. Exposure to primary or second-hand smoke can lead to adenocarcinoma of the lung, the most common type of lung cancer, according to VirtualMedicalCentre.com. Cigarette smoke contains carcinogens and other toxins that affect cells within the lungs. Exposure to mutagens in cigarette smoke promotes the accumulation of genetic mutations in lung cells--eventually contributing to cancer growth and development. The risk of adenocarcinoma within the lung increases with the number of cigarettes smoked and the period of smoke exposure.
Poor Diet and Obesity
A poor diet can also cause adenocarcinoma in a number of tissues of the digestive system, such as the stomach, intestines and colon. According to a study published in the Cancer Journal for Clinicians, a body mass index over 30 can increase the risk of developing gastric or esophageal adenocarcinoma as much as 700 percent. The study also explains that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can form a protective effect against adenocarcinoma in the digestive system. Patients can help prevent the development of adenocarcinomas by maintaining a balanced diet and healthy body weight.
