Ancient physicians Galen and Hippocrates Galen (left) and Hippocrates illustrated on the title page of De Morbo Attonito: Liber Unus ad Hippocraticam Sanguinis in Corpore Humano Periodum Exaratus (1677; “On the Disease of Astonishment: A Book Written According to the Hippocratic Period of the Blood in the Human Body”), a medical book by Georg Heinrich Frommann. (more) History of Cancer: A Timeline Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/History-of-Cancer-A-Timeline Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by Kara Rogers Kara Rogers is the senior editor of biomedical sciences at Encyclopædia Britannica, where she oversees a range of content from medicine and genetics to microorganisms. She joined Britannica in 2006 and... Kara Rogers Fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Aug 22, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot The history of cancer research and treatment is marked by centuries of scientific inquiry and medical innovation. From the earliest written descriptions of tumors in ancient texts to the sophisticated molecular therapies of today, each milestone reflects a deeper understanding of the complexity of cancer and the relentless pursuit of cures. Advances in surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and, more recently, targeted therapy and immunotherapy have transformed cancer from a largely fatal diagnosis into a disease that can often be managed or even prevented. This timeline traces the pivotal discoveries, technological breakthroughs, and clinical achievements that have shaped modern approaches to ...(100 of 361 words)

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