Recent research indicates that cancer spread may occur earlier than previously thought, with normal cells potentially transporting cancer to new sites before a tumor even develops. This dormant state can last until certain genes are activated, which may explain why some breast cancers lead to secondary tumors long after initial treatment. Secondary cancers are a major cause of mortality in breast cancer patients, highlighting the importance of understanding cancer spread mechanisms. Experts emphasize the need for further research to improve prevention strategies, especially as aging increases cancer risk. Additionally, the specificity of secondary tumors is notable, as certain cancer types, like prostate cancer, preferentially metastasize to specific organs, such as bone. The ongoing debate among medical professionals centers on whether this phenomenon is primarily driven by the cancer cells themselves or the surrounding environment, which has implications for treatment approaches.
