When will we have a cure for cancer?
Having recently worked in a cancer research lab, this question always makes me cringe. What happens to all of the cancer research funding?
In a world of finger-pointing and conspiracy theories, many are willing to adopt the notion that cancer research is merely a giant money grab; that a cure has been discovered, but is never implemented because scientists wish to keep their lucrative secret safe.
The truth is, there is not, nor will there ever be, an all-encompassing cure for cancer. People need to understand that cancer is not a single disease, rather, it is an extremely broad category of diseases related to DNA mutation. Different cancers arise based on genetic makeup, lifestyle, and exposure to carcinogens.
Moreover, since the disease itself mutates rapidly, a single, unified cure is impossible. So why is all of this money spent on cancer research? Is it all a waste?
The answer is no.
Currently, researchers are developing effective treatments on a case-by-case basis. Databases of entirely sequenced human DNA have been used to gain valuable information regarding the effects of specific cancers on a specific individual's DNA sequence.
Ideally, in the future, everyone will have a data stick containing their own unique genetic code. Doctors will then be able to prescribe customized treatments based on the individual.
Researchers are not trying to find a "cure" for cancer. This idea is as archaic as turning lead into gold.
It's easy to demand a miracle pill, and it's easy to criticize the system. But anyone who cares to dig a little deeper will discover that progress is being made.
Chris Unger
Prince George
