Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It can arise in almost any part of the body and remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, contributing to nearly one in five deaths globally. Today, cancer represents not just a medical condition, but a growing public health challenge that affects families, communities, and national health systems.
Although cancer has existed throughout human history, early civilizations often misunderstood the disease, attributing it to spiritual or supernatural causes. Ancient medical records from Egypt and Greece describe tumours, but limited scientific knowledge and shorter life expectancy meant that cancer cases were rarely identified or properly documented. Modern science, however, has transformed cancer from a mysterious illness into a biologically understood disease driven by cellular and genetic changes.
Is Cancer a Modern Disease?
Scientists continue to debate whether cancer is truly a “modern” disease. Some evidence suggests that the apparent rise in cancer cases today is partly due to improved diagnostic tools, longer life expectancy, and better reporting systems. As people live longer, the likelihood of developing cancer increases due to the accumulation of cellular damage over time.
At the same time, modern lifestyles have introduced new risk factors that significantly contribute to cancer development. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, environmental pollution, poor diet, physical inactivity, industrial chemicals, and radiation exposure all increase cancer risk. These factors have transformed cancer into not only a biological disease but also a lifestyle- and environment-driven condition.
The Complex Causes of Cancer
Cancer does not have a single cause. It results from a complex interaction between genetics, environmental exposures, lifestyle choices, infections, and ageing. Some cancers are linked to infectious agents such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical cancer, while others are influenced by environmental exposure, such as ultraviolet radiation in skin cancer. This complexity makes cancer prevention and control a shared responsibility between individuals, communities, and health systems.
Prevention, Awareness, and the Way Forward
Despite its complexity, cancer is increasingly preventable. Lifestyle changes, vaccination programmes (such as HPV vaccination), early screening, and public health education remain powerful tools in reducing cancer risk. Early detection significantly improves survival rates and quality of life, making awareness campaigns and community sensitisation essential.
Understanding cancer as both an ancient and modern disease highlights a critical truth: while science continues to advance treatment options, prevention, education, and early intervention remain our strongest weapons. With the right policies, public awareness, and access to healthcare, the burden of cancer can be reduced, saving lives and strengthening healthier societies.
