Carcinogenicity diseases, cancer

Cancer is a disorder of the body s control of the growth of cells. The disease may be genetic or influenced by life style or exposure to certain chemicals, termed carcinogens. For a list of examples of human chemical carcinogens, and the relevant target organs, refer to Table 5.10. 

Determination of environmental carcinogens is not an end in itself. Although often misunderstood or misinterpreted, the aim of scientific work in this area is to collect data on human exposure, to pinpoint emission and immission sources and to determine the causes of potential health risks to humans. The ultimate aim is always elimination or reduction of human exposure and thereby prevention of human cancer. In view of the slow progress in the treatment of human cancer this approach is an important strategy in the fight against this disease. 

Cigarette smoking is responsible for about 80% of lung cancer cases. Other risk factors include exposure to respiratory carcinogens (e.g., asbestos, benzene), genetic risk factors, and history of other lung diseases (e.g., tuberculosis, pulmonary fibrosis). 

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