Antioxidants Do Not Kill Cancer; They Trigger It

James Watson, a renowned scientist who received the Nobel Prize and was one of the discoverers of the double-helical structure of DNA, is making notable statements about cancer. Watson points out that antioxidants may trigger cancer rather than kill it. Known for his research in genetic engineering, Watson states that some of the antioxidants used to fight cancer may trigger the disease.

Watson also addresses the issue of free oxygen radicals. These radicals cause oxidative stress, breaking down compounds in cells, and may also cause damage to DNA. Damage to DNA can cause cells to die, and cancer cells, as a type of damaged cell, may be prevented from progressing toward death when antioxidants are taken by reducing oxidative stress. However, according to Watson, the situation is not this simple, and radiotherapy and many types of chemotherapy produce oxygen radicals to eliminate cancer cells. In other words, the use of antioxidants may reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

Watson’s report is also supported by recent research. An article published in the journal Nature found that antioxidants may lead to the faster spread of cancer.

Watson states that the Myc protein could be a target that opens a new chapter in cancer treatment. This protein, which controls more than 1000 molecules within cells, is thought to be associated with cancer.

However, according to Watson, the greatest obstacle in cancer treatment is the conduct of conservative research. If this continues, cancer treatment will always be 10 or even 20 years away.

In conclusion, scientific advances in cancer treatment need to be followed, and caution should be exercised regarding the use of herbal medicines promoted by alternative medicine marketers. It should not be forgotten that cancer is not a single disease and has nearly thousands of subtypes under more than a hundred headings. It is vital that medicines used for cancer treatment be taken under a doctor’s supervision.