In the research conducted till now, it was believed that the risk of cancer increases with increasing age. Because immunity weakens with increasing age. Besides, research has also revealed that with time many genetic changes occur in the cells and these genetic problems gradually start accumulating. This causes the development of cancer.
However, a new research was conducted by researchers at ‘Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’ (MSK) using a mouse model of lung cancer. In which it has been revealed that the risk of cancer actually reduces with old age. Dr. Xueqian Zhuang explained in detail how lung cancer, like many other cancers, is usually treated around the age of 70. Nevertheless, the chances of its occurrence decrease by the age of 80 or 85.
The risk of cancer decreases with increasing age.
Our research helps show why this happens. With aging, cells lose the ability to make new cells and hence the exponential growth of cancer decreases. The team tried to understand why cancer rates peak in early old age and then decline. They used a genetically modified mouse model of lung adenocarcinoma. Which is a common lung cancer which is responsible for about 7% of global cancer deaths.
Studying aging in models is challenging because it takes two years for mice to reach the age equivalent of 65 to 70 years in humans. Despite the process being time-consuming and requiring a lot of resources, the researchers found it worthwhile.
This was revealed in research
It was also discovered that this effect was reversible. Giving the aged mice extra iron or reducing the levels of NUPR1 in their cells restored their regenerative capacity. We think this discovery may have some immediate potential to help people. Right now, millions of people are living with inadequate lung function especially after the COVID-19 pandemic because their lungs have not fully recovered from an infection or any other reason. Our experiments in mice have shown that giving iron can help regenerate the lungs, and we have very good ways of delivering drugs directly into the lungs, such as asthma inhalers. Restoring the regenerative capacity of lung cells can help prevent cancer. Their ability to develop may also increase. Therefore, Dr. Tamela said that it may not be suitable for individuals who are at high risk of cancer.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.
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