Addictive drugs can inflict severe damage on the human body, but perhaps one of the most tragic of these effects is the onset of cancer. A debilitating and fatal disease, cancer causes trauma not only for the victim but also for the loved ones and friends surrounding them. What is particularly frightening is that 100 versions of this terrible disease plague people across the country (and the world). Even worse, some of the most severe forms of cancer (lung, breast, and prostate) are directly linked to substance addiction and abuse. With the right methods of prevention, however, you can easily prevent the onset of this disease. Saying “no” is the best type of medicine against drug-induced illnesses. Let’s take a closer look at what drugs increase the risk of developing cancer.
Anabolic Steroids
When you think about drug-related cancer, steroids might not be at the top of that list. After all, some varieties are prescribed for health problems, so they may not pose a risk, right? The short answer is: not exactly.
Anabolic steroids are synthetic drugs chemically similar to the male hormone “testosterone.” These drugs are particularly infamous in health and fitness circles. Bodybuilders, powerlifters, and athletes will use this drug to increase muscle mass. As a result of long-term use, people will experience drastic hormone imbalances and organ damage, as well as cancer. Due to chemical changes in the body, men are placing themselves at risk for prostate cancer, while women can develop breast cancer.
Marijuana
While some doctors will prescribe this drug to patients, marijuana can still pose a significant risk to your health if it is misused. After consuming marijuana, users will feel a sense of euphoria and an increase in heart rate (caused by the psychoactive cannabinoid THC). After long-term exposure, people may also be placing themselves at risk for cardiovascular problems.
More importantly, however, several studies may have confirmed a link between marijuana and several types of cancer. As part of this research, medical professionals discovered that adolescent men who use marijuana can potentially develop an aggressive variant of testicular cancer called a nonseminomatous testicular germ cell tumor. These studies also indicated that this variety of cancer may develop after a three-year period of consumption.
Tobacco
Medical professionals note that the addictive drug nicotine (a byproduct in tobacco leaves) does not cause cancer. However, an additional 69 chemicals in tobacco are of a carcinogenic grade, and 30% of yearly cancer-related deaths are caused by smoking cigarettes. In fact, additional studies have proven that casual smokers are two times more likely to develop a form of cancer than non-smokers, while heavy smokers are four times at risk of contracting cancer.
Some of the most common forms of cancer caused by tobacco use occur in the mouth, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, cervix, bladder, and kidneys.
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Out counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction troubles today.