From Diet to Lifestyle: The Surprising Ways We Can Target Cancer Cells

Cancer remains a significant public health concern worldwide. While the medical community continues to research and develop new treatments, it’s essential to understand how our bodies naturally combat these rogue cells. So let’s delve into how our immune system, healthy lifestyle choices, and preventative measures work together to keep cancer cells at bay.

The Immune System: The Body’s Built-in Cancer Fighter

Our immune system is our primary line of defense against cancer cells. Comprised of various cells, tissues, and organs, it works tirelessly to protect us from infections and diseases, including cancer. Some of the key components of our immune system that target cancer cells include:

1. Natural killer cells: These specialized white blood cells can detect and eliminate cells that exhibit signs of abnormal growth or stress. They act rapidly and can recognize cancer cells without needing prior exposure, making them an essential part of our immune system’s cancer-fighting arsenal.
2. T-cells: These immune cells play a vital role in the body’s adaptive immune response, recognizing and killing cancer cells. Two primary types of T-cells work together in this process: cytotoxic T-cells, which directly destroy cancer cells, and helper T-cells, which support the immune response by producing cytokines that assist in destroying tumors and regulating other immune cells.
3. B-cells: Responsible for producing antibodies, B-cells help neutralize cancer cells by tagging them for destruction. These antibodies bind to specific antigens on the surface of cancer cells, making them more visible to other immune cells and facilitating their elimination.
4. Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL): This type of white blood cell is present within the cancerous growth. Its presence indicates an immune response attempting to combat and eliminate malignant cells. TILs are extracted from the tumor and sent to a laboratory for reproduction. No alterations or modifications are necessary; lab specialists simply increase their numbers to battle the illness. Once reintroduced in ample quantities into the patient’s body, these cells actively seek out and destroy cancerous cells.

Diet and Lifestyle: The Role of Prevention

In addition to our immune system, several lifestyle choices can help keep cancer cells in check. By adopting healthy habits, we can strengthen our body’s natural defenses and lower our risk of developing cancer.

1. Nutritious diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides our bodies with the essential nutrients to maintain a healthy immune system. Antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as phytochemicals found in plant-based foods, can help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation, which may contribute to cancer development.

   

2. Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help lower the risk of certain cancers by regulating hormones, maintaining a healthy weight, and promoting a well-functioning immune system. Experts recommend aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.
3. Tobacco and alcohol avoidance: Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco products significantly reduce the risk of cancer, as these substances can harm our body’s cells and contribute to cancer development. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco use is the single most significant preventable cause of cancer, responsible for approximately 22% of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
4. Sun protection: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in our skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer. Taking precautions, such as wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, protective clothing and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak UV hours, can help prevent sun damage.

Preventative Measures: Early Detection and Vaccination

Taking preventive measures to protect ourselves from cancer is a crucial aspect of overall health. Early detection through screenings and the use of vaccinations can significantly impact cancer prognosis and survival rates, reducing the risk of developing certain types of cancers.

Early Detection through Screening:

Regular cancer screenings can detect abnormalities at early stages, increasing the chances of successful treatment. By undergoing recommended screenings, individuals can significantly improve their prognosis. Common screening methods include:

• Mammography: A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue that helps detect breast cancer in its early stages. Women should discuss the appropriate age and frequency for mammograms with their oncologist or healthcare provider based on their risk factors and medical history.
• Colonoscopy: This test allows doctors to examine the colon and rectum for signs of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps. Generally, people aged 45 and older should undergo regular colonoscopies, with the frequency determined by their risk factors and previous test results.
• Pap smears and HPV tests: These screen for cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in women. Regular screenings can detect cervical cancer early or even identify precancerous changes that can be treated before they progress to cancer.
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: This blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can be an early sign of prostate cancer. Men should discuss the potential benefits and risks of PSA testing with their healthcare provider.
• Skin examinations: Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks by a dermatologist can help detect skin cancer early. Individuals should monitor any changes in the appearance of their skin, such as new moles, changes in the size or shape of existing moles, or any unusual skin growth.

Vaccination:

Vaccination is another crucial preventative measure against certain types of cancer. Immunizations against specific viruses can considerably reduce the risk of developing virus-related cancers. Some vital vaccinations include:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine: The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV responsible for most cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. The vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys, typically administered around ages 11-12, though catch-up vaccinations are available for individuals up to age 26.
• Hepatitis B vaccine: The hepatitis B vaccine can help prevent liver cancer caused by the hepatitis B virus. The vaccine is routinely given to infants as part of their immunization schedule, but it’s also available to unvaccinated adults who are at a higher risk of Hepatitis B infection.
• pylori screening and treatment: Infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori is a significant risk factor for stomach cancer. Although there is no vaccine for H. pylori, screening for the infection and subsequent treatment with antibiotics can help lower the risk of stomach cancer.

Preventative measures such as early detection through screenings and vaccinations play a critical role in our body’s ability to battle cancer cells. By working closely with healthcare providers like family doctors and oncologists, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer and improve their chances of successful treatment if diagnosed.

Sources:

• Immune Cell Gene Therapy, WebMD
• B-Cells, Cleveland Clinic
• Natural Killer Cells, British Society of Immunology
• What You Can Do to Prevent Cancer and How It Works, WebMD