This fear sets in the minds of people as soon as they hear the name of cancer. Especially when it comes to children, the worry increases further. Many times this question arises in the minds of parents whether cancer can spread from one person to another like any infection or can this disease reach children from birth. Actually, in case of serious diseases like AIDS, it is common for the infection to spread, but can this happen with cancer also?
Is cancer an infectious disease?
According to experts, cancer is not an infectious disease in any way. That means this disease neither spreads by touching, nor by living together, nor by eating food together, nor by air. Cancer occurs when the DNA of body cells changes and they start growing uncontrollably. This process happens inside the body and has nothing to do with coming in contact with another person. This is the reason why cancer is not considered a disease that spreads like flu or other infections.
Why is cancer linked to AIDS?
AIDS i.e. HIV disease is not directly cancer, but it weakens the immune system of the body. When the body’s immune system becomes weak, the body cannot fight the cells properly. In such a situation, the risk of certain types of cancer increases in children suffering from HIV or AIDS. Among which non-Hodgkin lymphoma is considered to be the most prominent. This is called AIDS related lymphoma. This cancer starts in the white blood cells of the lymphatic system i.e. lymph system.
How does AIDS-related lymphoma develop in children?
Actually, this disease is seen in children when they get HIV infection at the time of birth or during feeding and antivirus medicines are not given on time. At the same time, HIV virus attacks the body’s defense system, due to which the risk of infection and cancer increases manifold. In such children, rapidly growing cancer can develop in the lymph nodes, brain, spinal cord or other parts of the body.
What advice do experts give?
Experts say that it is very important to remove the misconceptions spread in the society regarding cancer. Keeping distance from cancer patients is not only wrong but also has a negative impact on their mental health. In the case of children, if there is a risk of HIV or any serious disease, then timely testing and proper treatment is very important.
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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