VARIOUS THEORIES ON THE CAUSES OF CANCER

Hippocrates’ Black Bile theory was came into existence during 17th century replacing the lymphatic theory. The discovery of lymphatic system was the biggest milestone ever achieved by the ancient physicians. Any change or abnormality in the lymphatic system was the cause of cancer. With the help of lymphatic system, physicians were able to envisage the truth behind human immune system. The physicians believed that if they could find the causes for the abnormalities in lymphatic system, they could easily find a cure for cancer. During late 19th century, cells were recognized by Rudolph Virchow. Rudolph Virchow also found that even cancer cells were derived from other cells. Many other theories about cancer were discovered during that period. Some physicians believed that cancer was caused by parasites and traumas. Some of them even believed that cancer spreads like a liquid. Karl Thiersch, a German surgeon was the first person who discovered that cancer was caused by malignant cells. A wrong Nobel price was awarded for a physician who ended that stomach cancer was caused by worms. A greatest progression in the cancer diagnostics was sensed in 20th century. Therapy including chemotherapy and radiation therapy was discovered.