Exposure to Carcinogens and its effects in the Formation of Cancer

Xiaowei Liu

Abstract

A carcinogen is any substance which can arise in both natural and synthetic substances, radionuclide or radiation that promotes carcinogenesis and formation of cancer. This is due to the ability to damage the genome or to the disruption of cellular metabolic processes. Radioactive substances are considered as carcinogens, but their carcinogenic activity is related to the radiation, example gamma rays and alpha particles. Some examples of nonradioactive carcinogens are inhaled asbestos, certain dioxins and tobacco smoke. Carcinogens are not immediately toxic thus their effect can be in a gradual way.