Final answer:
The probability of cancer increases as human age increases due to the accumulation of mutations in cells over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The probability of cancer increases dramatically as human age increases due to the accumulation of mutations in cells over time.
As we age, cells in our body divide and acquire more mutations. Some mutations may lead to the inactivation of DNA repair genes, while others can convert proto-oncogenes into oncogenes. Additionally, mutations can inactivate tumor-suppressor genes, which normally prevent uncontrolled cell growth.
These series of mutations in tumor-suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes can eventually lead to cancer. Additionally, age-related accumulation of mutations can result in the inactivation of tumor-suppressor genes, which normally act to inhibit the division and survival of abnormal cells. Over time, the cumulative effect of these genetic alterations overwhelms the cell's regulatory mechanisms, leading to the development of cancer.