New research out of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, suggests that the fight against cancer dates back much further than previously thought. Scientists have uncovered archaeological evidence indicating that ancient Egyptians attempted early forms of cancer surgery more than 4,000 years ago.
A study published in the journal Frontiers in Medicine reveals that researchers from Spain, the U.K., and Germany examined two skulls from the University of Cambridge’s Duckworth Collection. These skulls belonged to individuals who lived between 2687 and 2345 BCE and 663 to 343 BCE, respectively.
Upon closer examination under a microscope, the researchers identified large cancerous lesions in both skulls that had caused significant tissue damage. One of the skulls exhibited numerous smaller lesions, suggesting advanced, metastasized cancer. Surprisingly, cut marks around the lesions indicated an attempted surgical removal, marking the earliest instance of surgical cancer treatment in history.
Lead by paleopathologist Edgard Camarós, the team expressed initial skepticism regarding the evidence of surgery on the cancerous lesions, but ultimately concluded that it represented a significant milestone in the history of medicine. Despite the unsuccessful outcome of the procedure, the discovery sheds light on early attempts to combat cancer.
The findings also offer insight into ancient Egyptian medical practices and the challenges faced by individuals battling cancer thousands of years ago. The incomplete nature of archaeological remains leaves room for different interpretations and hypotheses, prompting further research to confirm and expand on these discoveries.
In addition to the evidence of early cancer treatment, the team believes they have uncovered signs of successful treatment for a past traumatic injury in another skull from the collection. This discovery hints at the possibility of a violent past for this individual, sparking curiosity about the lives and experiences of ancient Egyptians.
Moving forward, the researchers aim to delve deeper into the relationship between humans and cancer throughout history. By completing the biography of cancer from its inception, they hope to gain a better understanding of how the disease has evolved alongside human civilization.