Malnutrition is a major problem and when it comes to children’s health, it can have grave implications. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, director, haemato-oncology and bone marrow transplant, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital said, “Undernutrition and food adulteration may potentially lead to cancer through suppression of DNA repair, elevation of oxidative stress, and compromised immune response to cancerous cells.”
Here’s how malnutrition can increase cancer risk in children:
Weakened immune system:
The immune system is highly important in detecting and eradicating the potential precursors of cancerous cells. The immune system is weaker in undernourished children, and they are likely to get infected more often and unable to get rid of precancerous cells. EBV and HPV are some of the chronic infections that can lead to cancer in children from malnourished families because the immune system is suppressed.
Oxidative stress and DNA damage:
Deficiency of vitamins A, C, E, and zinc can lead to an increase in oxidative stress that may damage DNA. Free radicals form mutations in the human body, and when the body does not have the means to fight them, they may lead to the development of cancer. Adequate nutrition also promotes DNA repair mechanisms, hence preventing the formation of genetic mutations that may lead to tumour formation.