Hepatitis C Virus is a known oncogenic RNA virus associated with which type of cancer?

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a well-established oncogenic virus primarily linked to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Chronic infection with HCV leads to persistent liver inflammation, ongoing liver cell damage, and regenerative changes that can culminate in fibrosis and cirrhosis. These chronic processes create an environment conducive to the malignant transformation of liver cells.

The mechanism by which HCV contributes to carcinogenesis involves both direct and indirect actions. The virus can cause direct cellular damage and dysregulate host cell signaling pathways that regulate cell growth and proliferation. Additionally, the ongoing inflammation associated with chronic hepatitis can lead to oxidative stress, further promoting DNA damage and genomic instability, which are critical events in the progression to cancer.

In contrast, the other types of cancers listed do not have a recognized association with Hepatitis C. Hairy cell leukemia is a hematologic malignancy that is primarily related to other factors. Prostate adenocarcinoma's etiology involves hormonal influences and genetic predisposition, and CNS malignant lymphoma is commonly associated with immunocompromised states rather than direct viral oncogenesis related to HCV.

Thus, the association of HCV with hepatocellular carcinoma is well documented, making it the correct choice regarding