Birds (IMAGE) Arizona State University Caption Cancer affects virtually all multicellular organisms, birds included. A new study highlights the trade-off between investment in reproduction and DNA maintenance. Birds laying larger numbers of eggs have less resources available to ensure the integrity of their DNA, leaving them more vulnerable to cancer. Credit Graphic by Jason Drees Usage Restrictions None License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.