Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the glandular tissue, according to the University of Illinois Medical Center at Chicago. The cancer develops from epithelial and secretory cells that line and surround tissues of the body. Adenocarcinoma cancer can develop in a number of areas including the lungs, breasts, colon, stomach and prostate. Advanced adenocarcinomas affect multiple tissue locations in the body. The causes of adenocarcinomas include a variety of environmental and internal factors.
Genetic Mutations
Adenocarcinomas develop from genetic mutations of previously healthy cells. The human body contains thousand of genes, that help to control a cell's response to its environment and behavior. Gene mutation within epithelial glands can allow unlimited cell replication, the ability to evade cell death and abnormal cell proliferation--all steps in cell development, reports InteliHealth.com. During routine examinations, physicians screen for common adenocarcinoma mutations to devise an effective cancer treatment plan.
Smoking
Smoking may cause different types of adenocarcinoma cancer. Exposure to second-hand or primary smoke can lead to lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of lung cancer, reports the University of Illinois Medical Center at Chicago. Cigarette smoke contains toxins such as carcinogens that affect cellular health within the lungs. In addition, exposure to certain agents in cigarette smoke promotes genetic mutation formation in lung cells, which contributes to the development and growth of cancer. The risk of developing adenocarcinoma of the lung increases with extended exposures to smoke.
Poor Diet and Obesity
A poor diet can cause adenocarcinoma cancer in the intestines, colon, stomach and other tissues in the digestive system. According to an article in the "Cancer Journal for Clinicians," individuals with a body mass index over 30 are at risk of developing esophageal or gastric adenocarcinoma cancer. The study explains nutritious diets rich in vegetables and fruits can form digestive immunity against adenocarcinoma cancer. Patients can help prevent adenocarcinoma development by maintaining a healthy body weight and balanced diet.
References
- University of Illinois Medical Center at Chicago: Adenocarcinoma
- InteliHealth: Adenocarcinoma of the Lung
- Genes and Development: Genetics and biology of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
- Cancer Journal for Clinicians: Concepts in the Prevention of Adenocarcinoma of the Distal Esophagus and Proximal Stomach
