Advancements in Cancer Treatment and Prevention

Cancer is a unique disease that has affected humans for centuries. The earliest cases recalled began in ancient Egypt around 3000 BC, where Edwin Smith Papyrus detailed cases of breast tumors treated with cauterization, even though the term "cancer" was not yet used. The Greek physician “Hippocrates used the terms "carcinos"” and "carcinoma", which mean “cancer”, to define tumors, comparing their appearance to crabs due to the finger-like structure of the disease (ACS). Over time, theories about cancer's causes developed from Hippocrates' humoral theory to the lymph theory in the 1600s, which implied that cancer formed from fermenting lymph fluid . In the 19th century, Rudolf Virchow proposed the "chronic irritation theory," explaining that continuous irritation led to cancer, but this was redefined as cellular pathology advanced. These discoveries created the foundation for modern oncology, demonstrating the importance of cellular changes in cancer development. 

Cancer has a wide range of diseases with uncontrolled cell growth. There are over 100 types of cancer and all are classified based on the originating cell type. Common types include carcinomas, which affect epithelial cells, sarcomas for connective tissues, leukemias for blood-forming tissues, lymphomas for the immune system, and melanomas for pigment-producing cells . Each kind shows various behaviors, growth patterns, and treatment reactions. For example, breast cancer mainly affects women and can be influenced by hormonal factors, while leukemia involves the rapid production of abnormal WBCs. Advancements in molecular biology have helped cancer classification, allowing focused therapies based on genetic mutations. This technique has improved results and mitigated side effects for many patients. However, challenges still remain in treating life-threatening or rare cancer types, emphasizing the need for constant research. 

Fortunately, recent developments in cancer treatment have brought hope to many patients. On April 30, 2025, the UK's National Health Service or, NHS, introduced a revolutionary immunotherapy injection called nivolumab. This "super-jab" treats “15 types of cancer, including lung, kidney”, and skin cancers, and is injected under the skin in only five minutes, highlighting a significant improvement over the traditional intravenous way (The Guardian) . The MHRA approved this method after many successful clinical trials. Approximately 1,200 patients every month are expected to benefit from this treatment, which not only eases patient convenience but also increases hospital efficiency . This innovation illustrates the efforts being made to make cancer treatment more accessible and less burdening for patients. 

Additionally, early identification and prevention are critical in the fight against cancer. Recent studies have shown that certain cancers like colorectal, breast, and cervical cancers, are increasingly affecting younger populations . Regular screenings and knowledge about family medical history can help identify symptoms and signs earlier, improving the treatment’s outcomes. Furthermore, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and avoiding tobacco use have a significant effect in cancer prevention. Vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine, have also been crucial in reducing the occurrence of cervical cancer. Public health measures continue to advance and emphasize the importance of these preventive tactics. Education and access to healthcare services are necessary to ensure that individuals can take steps to protect their health. As research progresses, the combination of preventive strategies with advanced treatments show high chances for reducing cancer's impact. 

Overall, cancer's history guides society’s continuous journey to understand and reduce the severe disease. From old theories to modern scientific developments, knowledge on tumors has broadened significantly. The recent introduction of the nivolumab injection in the UK marks a remarkable advancement in treatment, offering faster and more accessible care. At the same time, the cruciality of early detection and prevention highlights the multiple factors needed to address cancer properly. Continued research, public health strategies, and personalized medicine are important parts in reducing cancer as a global issue. As communities build onto previous discoveries and support medical modernization, there is potential for a future in which cancer is curable and preventable.

Work Cited 

1.) American Cancer Society. “Understanding What Cancer Is: Ancient Times to Present.” Www.cancer.org, American Cancer Society, 4 Jan. 2018, 

www.cancer.org/cancer/understanding-cancer/history-of-cancer/what-is-cancer.html. 

2.) Bawden, Anna. “Cancer Patients in England to Be First in Europe to Be Offered Immunotherapy Jab.” The Guardian, The Guardian, 30 Apr. 2025, 

www.theguardian.com/society/2025/apr/30/cancer-patients-in-england-to-be-first-in-euro pe-to-be-offered-immunotherapy-jab. Accessed 1 May 2025. 

3.) Koronka, Poppy. “Five-Minute ‘Superjab’ for 15 Cancers to Be Available on NHS.” Thetimes.com, The Times, 30 Apr. 2025, 

www.thetimes.com/uk/healthcare/article/nhs-superjab-treat-cancers-qc75qgp2j?region=gl obal. Accessed 1 May 2025. 

4.) Schewitz, Kim. “Cancers in Young People: How to Reduce Risk, Notice Early Signs.” Business Insider, 7 Feb. 2024, 

www.businessinsider.com/how-to-reduce-cancer-risk-lower-chances-catch-early-signs-20 24-2. Accessed 1 May 2025.