Cancer is not usually inherited because the cancerous cells undergo apoptosisthe causes of cancer are not usually genetic.people with cancer usually die before reproducing.in the majority of new cancer cases, the chromosomal changes are confined to somatic cells.the cancerous cells usually interfere with the ability to produce gametes.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Correct Answer:
In the majority of new cancer cases, the chromosomal changes are confined to somatic cells.
Explanation:
Cancer is generally not inherited because most genetic mutations that lead to cancer occur in somatic cells, which are the non-reproductive cells of the body. These mutations are not present in gametes (sperm and eggs), meaning they cannot be passed down to offspring.
Why Cancer is Not Usually Inherited?
- Somatic vs. Germline Mutations:
- Mutations that occur in somatic cells (like skin, lung, or colon cells) are acquired during a person’s lifetime due to environmental factors, such as radiation, smoking, and UV exposure.
- Germline mutations, on the other hand, are present in gametes (sperm or egg cells) and can be inherited. However, only about 5–10% of cancers are due to inherited germline mutations.
- Apoptosis and Cancerous Cells:
- While normal cells with DNA damage may undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death), cancerous cells evade apoptosis, allowing them to grow uncontrollably. However, this is not the primary reason why cancer is not inherited.
- Cancerous Cells and Reproduction:
- While cancer can sometimes affect reproductive organs, it does not necessarily interfere with the ability to produce gametes. Many individuals with cancer can still reproduce.
- Natural Selection and Reproduction:
- The idea that people with cancer die before reproducing is incorrect, as many people with cancer live long enough to have children.
Conclusion:
Since most cancer-related genetic changes occur in somatic cells, they are not passed to offspring, making cancer not typically an inherited disease. Only when a mutation exists in the germline DNA can it be transmitted to the next generation.
Now, I will generate an image illustrating the concept of somatic vs. germline mutations and their role in cancer inheritance.
Here is the educational diagram illustrating why cancer is not usually inherited. It visually differentiates between somatic mutations (which occur in body cells and are not passed to offspring) and germline mutations (which can be inherited). Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!
