Can Rats Cause Cancer?
WouterA number of cancers in rats have been reported, including fibrosarcoma and histiocytic sarcoma. These cancers develop when cells in the body begin to gather together and form tumors. In addition to tumors in the rat body, researchers have also seen tumors in the skin and chest. Malignant melanoma has also been reported in rats. Researchers have also discovered that rats may be susceptible to sebaceous epitheliomas.
The most common tumor found in rats is a mammary tumor. These growths are stimulated by estrogen and are common after the rat stops ovulating at eighteen months of age. A mammary tumor may appear in either sex, but a female is more likely to develop multiple tumors. A vet can often identify these tumors early to minimize the risk of recurrence and complications.
Some symptoms of a tumor in a rat can include stiffness of the forward legs. This can cause it to be difficult to pick up a rat. It may hold its hands in a curled position when picked up. It may also butt its head against a hand when being petted.
The findings from the NTP study are supported by the results of an independent study. The researchers found that male rats exposed to high levels of cellphone radiation had a higher risk of developing rare cancers called schwannoma. The researchers believe that this is due to the radiation in the environment. Female rats may also develop tumors similar to those found in male rats.
