P53 Questions and Answers
What is p53 ?
p53 is a gene which codes for a protein found in the nucleus of every cell in the human body and many other species.
What does it do?
The p53 protein's main role is to prevent cancer cells evolving.
How does it suppress cancer?
p53 both stops damaged cells dividing and may encourage such cells to suicide.
What happens if my p53 is damaged?
If your p53 is damaged, it may be repaired. Otherwise the risk of long term change in particular tissues is increased.
How do you know this?
Recent medical research has shown that p53 is damaged in a very specific way in about 60% of people who smoke and develop lung cancer. A chemical in cigarette smoke damages p53. (4) That has been proven beyond doubt.
Is there a simple test for damaged p53 ?
No, not yet.
What can I do to protect myself?
Quit smoking.
References
1. Nature 1992;358:15-16
2. Cancer Research 1994;54:4855-4878
3. British Journal of Cancer 1994;69:409-416.
4. Science 1996;274:430-432.
Reasons to quit
Every cigarette you don’t smoke is doing you good. There are many health benefits to quitting, some of which you’ll be able to notice within hours or days. Similarly, within days, you’ll also notice the extra money in your pocket you’ve saved from quitting.
Ways to quit
Quitting smoking can be one of the most difficult, yet rewarding things a person can do. Most smokers' say they would like to quit, and may have tried at least once. These tips and facts will assist you in quitting for good.
Help and support
Quitting smoking can be hard, but you’re not alone. Quitline and Quit Coach can offer the support and guidance you need to quit for good.
Health Professionals
General practitioners and other health care professionals have an important role to play in assisting patients to quit. This section provides useful information, specific to health care professionals.