Education: Cancer Cures

Abstract

Ever since the recognition of cancer in the primitive eras of civilization, attempts have been made to control and eradicate this disease, some of the ancient remedies suggested for its treatment bordering on witchcraft, alchemy, and crude chemistry. In 50 B.C., however, surgical treatment of cancer and even radical mastectomy were practised. In spite of all efforts since then to find other means of treating the condition, surgery has remained the method of choice. Although to this day no direct panacea for cancer has been discovered, it is not inconceivable that some time in the future something will be found to prevent this scourge from pursuing its destructive force. The fact that the cause of cancer is still a mystery accounts for the existence of the illegitimate exploitation of so-called cancer cures. Because every possible agency should be utilized in treating and caring for cancer cases, we are constantly on the watch for some reliable means to effect our purpose. At present surgery, roentgen rays, and radium, either alone or in combination, constitute the best weapons for combatting cancer. Nevertheless, since more than once a useful invention has been discovered by chance, we continue hopeful that some suggested cancer procedure may prove efficacious. We feel in duty bound to receive with open mind every suggested cancer remedy for trial and examination.