Microbes and malignancy infection as a cause of human cancers

• Other Authors: Parsonnet, Julie (Editor)
• Format: Book
• Language: English
• Published: New York Oxford University Press 1999
• Subjects: Neoplasms > etiology; Infections > complications; Infections > microbiology; Infections > parasitology; Neoplastic Processes
• Online Access: Click Here to View Status and Holdings.

 Historically, the study of infection has focused on acute illnesses and their treatment. Yet infection is not simply an acute process; microbial agents thrive in the human body throughout life. The unrecognized, intimate relationship we share with micro-organisms is undoubtedly a critical factor in longevity and health. In recent years, it has become apparent that one long-term consequence of some chronic infections is cancer. Indeed, 15 to 20 per cent of cancers worldwide, including three of the most important cancers in the world today-cancers of the cervix, stomach and liver-may be attributable to underlying chronic infection. Fortunately, since infectious diseases are often treatable or preventable, the tie between infection and cancer can be looked at as an opportunity, rather than as a problem. This book, authored by some of the world's leaders in microbiology, virology, biochemistry, and pathology provides an overview of oncogenic mechanisms imputed to infection. Individual chapters examine the epidemiologic, clinical and molecular links between specific infectious agents and cancer. Methods of disease prevention are also addressed. Microbiologists, cancer biologists, pathologists, oncologists and infectious disease specialists and otheres interested in the etiology of malignancy will find this book and indispensable addition to their libraries.