Why Is It So Hard to Find a Cure for Cancer?

Cancer may never have a singular cure — but that doesn’t mean experts aren’t optimistic about what’s in store for future patients.

By Anna Funk
Apr 2, 2021 4:00 PM
hands holding a white ribbon cancer awareness - shutterstock 1726701073
(Credit: Tama2u/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Finding the cure for cancer is about as sought after as any elusive treasure. But there’s a reason nobody’s found it yet: Cancer isn’t actually a singular disease, but a broader genre of affliction, like viral infections. As much variation as there is between humans in their normal DNA, there’s even more genetic variation between any two types of cancer. That doesn’t mean researchers aren’t hard at work to figure out the best therapeutics possible and yes, even cures, for cancers.

All About that DNA

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.