Carcinogenesis and cancer prevention: the process and the disease deserve a better understanding

The last few decades have seen a significant progress in the management of various cancers. In addition to traditional treatments such as radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy, several new approaches based on knowledge of biological processes have been developed and tested and are being constantly refined. It is ironic that while we are making progress in treating cancers, the incidence of cancers is increasing. This discomforting fact suggests that perhaps the best way to fight cancer may be to prevent it from appearing in the first place.