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Cancer

Why does cancer risk increase as we get older?

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Aging is the single biggest risk factor for developing cancer. As people get older, DNA damage accumulates in cells, and chronic inflammation and imbalances in gut bacteria become more common. All of these factors may contribute to the age-related increase in cancer cases.

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About the Author

photo of Timothy Rebbeck, PhD

Timothy Rebbeck, PhD, Contributor

Timothy R. Rebbeck is a cancer researcher and professor who works to prevent cancer and reduce unfair differences in who gets and dies from the disease. He is the Vincent L. Gregory Professor of Cancer Prevention, … See Full Bio
View all posts by Timothy Rebbeck, PhD
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