Cancer Causes and Controversies

This book offers clear, accessible information on the causes of cancer and the multiple ways people can reduce their risk for this insidious disease. Like no other work, this much-needed volume gathers the latest research and understanding about the causes of cancer and methods of preventing the disease—and makes it all clear and accessible to the general reader. Cancer Causes and Controversies: Understanding Risk Reduction and Prevention describes common risk factors associated with particular types of cancer, including genetic predisposition, radiation and chemical carcinogens, diet, hormonal factors, infection, and smoking. The book then looks at the scientific evidence supporting the positive role of healthy nutrition, exercise, and diet in lowering cancer risk, as well as the dangers posed by a dysfunctional immune system compromised by chronic infection, unhealthy lifestyles, stress, and poor psychological health. Finally, the book provides an unbiased assessment of a number of controversies surrounding cancer causes and prevention, including screening and genetic testing, vitamin supplementation, genetically modified foods, chemical food additives, and cellular phones and deodorants as potential cancer-causing agents.