The conventional cancer model and its limitations
According to the conventional model, cancer is caused by somatic mutations and is treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, respectively. However, Seyfried argues that this model is flawed. Therapies based on this assumption often fail because they do not address the root cause of cancer: mitochondrial dysfunction. Consequently, despite advanced treatments, mortality remains high.
The success of the anti-smoking campaign
One of the greatest successes in cancer prevention has been the anti-smoking campaign. Significant reductions in smoking led to a decline in cancer rates, particularly lung cancer. However, even after smoking reductions, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths, demonstrating that other environmental factors also play a role.
Mitochondrial Health as a Lever for Cancer Prevention
To prevent cancer, maintaining mitochondrial health is crucial. This can be achieved by avoiding secondary risk factors and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Our current lifestyle, characterized by a sedentary lifestyle and high consumption of processed carbohydrates, impairs mitochondrial function and, therefore, increases the risk of cancer.
Discovery of glucose fermentation and oxidative stress
Dr. Seyfried and his colleagues discovered that cancer cells ferment glucose—a process that does not require oxygen, unlike normal cellular respiration. This fermentation is an ancestral adaptation that allows cancer cells to survive and grow. The discovery that cancer cells can also ferment certain amino acids, such as glutamine, has broadened treatment options.
Negative effects of conventional treatments
Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often do more harm than good. Although some patients survive, they often suffer serious side effects, such as surgical damage, hormonal disruption, gut microbiota problems, and metabolic issues. These treatments can also promote tumor growth by releasing fermentable fuels such as glucose and glutamine into the tumor microenvironment.
Mitochondrial Damage and the Cancer Growth Pathway
Mitochondrial damage leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause mutations in cellular DNA, creating a loop of uncontrolled tumor growth. Seyfried’s research has shown that these mutations are secondary effects, not the primary causes of cancer. This highlights the importance of channeling cancer cell energy into effective cancer treatment.
