Microbes and Malignancy: Infection as a Cause of Human Cancers

Historically, the study of infection has focused on acute illnesses and their treatment. Infection, however, is not simply an acute process; microbial agents thrive in the human body throughout life. The unrecognized, intimate relationship we share with microorganisms is a critical factor in longevity and health. In recent years, it has become apparent that some cancers may be attributable to underlying chronic infection. Fortunately, infectious diseases are often treatable or preventable. Also, the composition of infectious agents is far less complex than that of humans. Thus the link between infection and cancer may offer insight into the pathogenesis and prevention of all cancers. This book, authored by some of the world's leaders in microbiology, virology, biochemistry, and pathology, provides an overview of oncogenic mechanisms imputed to infection. Individual chapters examine the epidemiologic, clinical and molecular links between specific infectious agents and cancer, and address methods of disease prevention. Microbiologists, cancer biologists, pathologists, oncologists, and infectious disease specialists interested in the etiology of malignancy will find this book an indispensable addition to their libraries.

Julie Parsonnet, Departments of Medicine and Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine.