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What causes hemangiosarcoma? - Environmental Exposures and Canine Cancer Risk
- CCA Team
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 19
Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is one of the most aggressive and heartbreaking cancers in dogs. It often appears without warning and spreads rapidly.
While new immunotherapy treatments, such as the EGFR/HER2 vaccine, are helping extend survival times, an important question remains: Why are so many dogs developing Hemangiosarcoma?
In this webinar, Dr. Catherine Wise, a research scientist at Duke University, will discuss emerging evidence linking chemical exposure to increased cancer risk in dogs.
Understanding Hemangiosarcoma
Hemangiosarcoma is a devastating diagnosis. It primarily affects the spleen, heart, and skin. This cancer can be particularly sneaky. Many dogs show no symptoms until the disease is advanced. By then, treatment options may be limited.
The Role of Chemical Exposure
Recent studies suggest a link between chemical exposure and the development of Hemangiosarcoma. Dr. Wise's research highlights how certain chemicals might increase cancer risk. These findings are crucial for dog owners. Understanding these risks can help us make informed choices for our pets.
Episode Highlights:
Silicone Samplers for Exposure Tracking
Silicone tags worn on dog collars can detect ambient chemical exposures. These tags have been validated by correlation with urinary biomarkers. This technology could help us understand what our pets are exposed to daily.
Bladder Cancer Case-Control Study with BRAF Mutation
In a study of 101 dogs, four chemicals, including flame retardants and a plasticizer, were significantly elevated in dogs with the BRAF mutation associated with bladder cancer. This finding underscores the importance of monitoring chemical exposure in our pets.
New Hemangiosarcoma Study in Golden Retrievers
A Canine Cancer Alliance–sponsored study, led by Duke University researchers, is comparing serum samples from 100 dogs with splenic hemangiosarcoma to 200 matched controls—all golden retrievers. This research aims to uncover potential links between environmental factors and this aggressive cancer.
Persistent Organic Pollutants are a Major Focus
Researchers are analyzing serum samples for PBDEs, PCBs, and organochlorine pesticides. These substances are potential contributors to hemangiosarcoma. Understanding these pollutants can help us mitigate risks.
Practical Prevention Recommendations
Dr. Wise advises minimizing pesticide use, selecting PFAS-free products, regular dusting, and using safer cleaning supplies. These simple steps can make a significant difference in reducing chemical exposure for our dogs.
Complex Interplay of Environment and Genetics
“Genetics loads the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger.” This phrase summarizes the nuanced relationship between predisposition and exposures in cancer risk. It’s essential to recognize that both factors play a role in our pets' health.
Chemical Burden is a Cancer Risk Factor
Dogs with the BRAF mutation, common in bladder cancer, had not only more chemical exposures but also higher concentrations of those chemicals compared to healthy matched controls. This finding highlights the importance of monitoring our pets' environments.
Pesticides, Plastic Additives, and Flame Retardant Exposure are Common
Multiple cancer-linked chemicals found in pet environments include permethrin (pesticide), TDCPP (flame retardant), and DEHP (plasticizer). All these substances were detected at higher levels in cancer-affected dogs. Awareness of these chemicals can help us create safer environments for our pets.
Environmental Chemicals as Immune Disruptors
Dr. Wise explains how these chemicals may fuel cancer by weakening immune surveillance, triggering chronic inflammation, or interfering with cellular repair mechanisms. Understanding these processes is vital for prevention.
Key Quotes:
“Genetics is only a small part of the picture. A lot of the factors that are associated with chronic diseases are actually environmental factors.”
“In reality, we are exposed to thousands of chemicals each day. We are exposed to so many chemicals, and it’s this cocktail of chemicals in our environment… It’s not necessarily one bad actor.”
“We know that these kinds of environmental chemicals can contribute to cancer risk by interacting with the immune system, by causing inflammation, or by disrupting hormones.”
Check Out Other Articles and Videos
If you have questions, feel free to email us at info@ccralliance. We’ll respond as soon as we can!
Canine Cancer Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting research for canine cancer cures.
All information on the Canine Cancer Alliance website is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice.
Always consult your veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet’s health and medical condition.
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