👉 Cancer induced by infection, or oncovirus-induced cancer, occurs when certain viruses or bacteria transform normal cells into cancerous ones. These pathogens can introduce genetic material into host cells, disrupting normal cellular functions and leading to uncontrolled cell growth. For example, human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause cervical cancer by integrating its DNA into the host genome, activating oncogenes and inactivating tumor suppressor genes. Similarly, hepatitis B and C viruses can lead to liver cancer by causing chronic inflammation and liver damage, which increases the risk of malignant transformation. The interaction between viral or bacterial components and the host's immune system plays a crucial role in this process, often involving mechanisms that evade immune detection or cause persistent inflammation, both of which contribute to cancer development.
