How does chronic inflammation influence cancer development?

Chronic inflammation plays a significant role in cancer development by creating a microenvironment that is conducive to tumorigenesis. Inflammatory processes often involve the recruitment of various immune cells, the release of inflammatory mediators, and alterations in tissue architecture. This environment can lead to several changes that promote the initiation and progression of cancer.

For instance, inflammatory cells can produce reactive oxygen species and other genotoxic agents, which may cause DNA damage. Furthermore, chronic inflammation can lead to the production of growth factors and cytokines that stimulate cell proliferation while inhibiting apoptosis, allowing damaged cells to survive and proliferate. Additionally, the microenvironment established by chronic inflammation can facilitate angiogenesis, which is necessary for tumors to grow and metastasize.

By fostering these conditions, chronic inflammation does not merely coexist with cancer but actively contributes to its pathogenesis, making it a critical factor in understanding how certain diseases can progress to malignancies. This ability to alter the local environment to support tumor growth underscores the importance of chronic inflammation in cancer biology.