Seven more carcinogenic substances discovered.

American scientists have discovered seven more substances that can lead to cancer, bringing the total number of human carcinogens to 248.

Among the seven new substances added to the list of carcinogens are five viruses: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1), Human T-cell Leukemia Virus (HTLV-1), Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Korean Herpes Virus (KSHV), and Merkel cell polyoma virus (MCV). According to the US Department of Health, these five viruses are linked to 20 types of cancer, including non-melanoma skin cancer, eye cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, and various types of lymphoma.

"About 12% of human cancers are caused by viruses, and there are currently no vaccines for five of these viruses," CNN quoted Linda Birnbaum, Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, as saying. "For example, HIV/AIDS attacks the immune system, impairing the body's ability to fight cancer. If your immune system is weakened, you are at a higher risk of developing cancer."

Photo: cygnushospitals.com.

Also appearing in the new group of carcinogens is Trichloroethylene, or TCE, commonly used in industry to produce hydrofluorocarbons. TCE decomposes slowly, easily disperses into the air, seeps through the soil, and contaminates drinking water sources. In addition,Cobalt and cobalt compounds, which are used in alloys, military equipment, and batteries, are also listed as hazardous.

Exposure to viruses, chemicals, or radiation that can cause cancer doesn't guarantee you'll get cancer. "Most people know that cigarettes lead to lung cancer, but only 11% of smokers develop the disease," says Birnbaum. She explains that the risk also depends on genes, lifestyle, diet, and age at which exposure to harmful factors occurs. However, it's undeniable that secondhand smoke is the leading cause of lung cancer, as smokers are 15-30 times more likely to die from lung cancer than non-smokers.

To minimize the harm from these seven substances, experts recommend that the community practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles, proactively discuss health protection methods with doctors, and undergo regular check-ups.

According to VNE