Over the years, I have seen patients with mold-related illnesses who have a history of cancer. Recognizing the correlation made me curious if mold and #mycotoxin exposure played a role in cancer development, so I looked at research studies.

Although this connection has not been thoroughly examined, the available research reveals the risks associated with indoor #mold exposure and mycotoxins in cancer development. Mycotoxins such as aflatoxins, ochratoxins, and zearalenone, produced by molds in damp or water-damaged environments, are associated with DNA damage, disruption of tumor-suppressor genes like TP53, and cancer-causing mutations.

Studies in the review reveal strong connections between mycotoxins and specific cancers:

✅ Ochratoxins: Associated with kidney cancer, as well as suspected links to testicular cancer through disruption of cellular metabolism and oxidative stress.

✅ Aflatoxins: Long recognized as potent carcinogens, primarily targeting the liver, with a strong association with hepatocellular carcinoma through their genotoxic effects.

✅ Zearalenone: An estrogen-mimicking mycotoxin linked to reproductive cancers like breast and cervical cancer due to its ability to interact with hormone receptors and induce DNA adducts.

Physicians must recognize environmental exposures as contributors to cancer risk. If mycotoxins induce a malignancy and the #cancer is successfully treated by surgical removal, chemotherapy, or radiation, the cause must be treated to prevent future illnesses or diseases.

Have you experienced cancer and mold-related illness? Please comment below.
#mycotoxin