Overview of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma

Executive Summary:

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is related to malignant Cylindroma, adenoid cystic, adenocystic, and Adenocyte. It is the outcome of genetic mutations in the healthy normal cells of the body, triggered by various environmental factors. Since the actual reason for Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma is still not known, listing out the potential threat factors and preventive measures is impossible. However, there are some methods to prevent the Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma tumor development. Adapting to a healthy diet, exercising regularly, stress management, quitting smoking and drinking habits, limiting processed food intake, and regular medical check-ups are some common preventive measures of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma. 

Mechanism of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma proliferation

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma affects the secretory glands of the body, specifically the ones in the head and neck region. ACC is also called malignant Cylindroma, adenoid cystic, adenocystic, and Adenocyte.

The actual cause of ACC is still undiscovered. Many kinds of research prove that it is neither a hereditary disease nor passed down from one generation to another. Also, habits like drinking and smoking, considered the primary risk factors for most cancers, are not responsible for causing ACC.  

Reason behind ACC

Researchers assume that Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma results from some genetic mutations in the healthy normal cells of the body, triggered by various environmental factors. These genetic changes cause the healthy cells to grow out of control and function abnormally. In the case of ACC tumors, a new gene named MYB-NFIB creates due to mutation. it is the result of the fusion of the broken number six and number nine chromosomes ^​1​.

The activation of this new gene is the critical genomic event that causes ACC tumors in most people. MYB also enhances the proliferation of ACC tumor cells and regulates the genes involved in DNA replication and repair, RNA processing and cell control. Thus, the oncogene MYB can serve as a potential diagnostic tool in detecting Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma and its treatment. MYB and MYB1 oncogenes are the primary drivers of the disease.   

Prevention

Since the actual reason for Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma is not clear, listing out the potential threat factors and preventive measures is impossible. However, Some of the ways to prevent the development of ACC tumor (or any cancer in general), one can keep in mind the available measures listed below:

Following a healthy, proper diet:

 Eating a good healthy diet can reduce the risk of any form of cancer. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables and other plant-based products, such as pulses, grains, nuts, beans in your diet.

Also Read: Importance of antioxidants in cancer prevention.

Be Physically Active and Maintain a healthy weight: 

Maintaining a healthy body weight can lower the risk of most diseases. Be physically fit and active. Eating a healthy diet and regular exercise can help people cultivate a cancer-free lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is critical for having a disease-free life. 

Managing Stress:

 Managing and keeping the stress level low is vital in preventing Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma cancer and other diseases. Practising yoga or meditation can help people to manage stress. People also can seek various therapies to relieve stress.  

Quit smoking and drinking habits:

 Drinking and smoking can have a very adverse impact on people’s health. Quitting these habits is vital in cancer prevention.

Limiting Processed Food intake: 

Regular intake of processed junk food can increase a person’s cancer risk and several other lifestyle diseases. So, cutting down on these can help people lead healthy lives.

Regular medical check-ups: 

Conducting regular self-exams and screenings can help people detect any form of cancer early, thereby increasing the chance of survival. People should consult a certified medical practitioner and carry out body check-ups occasionally to look for any signs of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma cancer. If a person is experiencing any signs or symptoms, they should consult a doctor without hesitation and carry out a detailed diagnosis.

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