Ancient Egyptian medicine may have included cancer surgery, skull analysis reveals | CNN
Evidence of surgical tumor removal in ancient Egyptian skull is ‘milestone in the history of medicine’ CNN
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Report on Ancient Egyptian Cancer Treatment
Introduction
Recent research has uncovered evidence suggesting that ancient Egyptian physicians may have attempted surgical treatment of cancer over 4,000 years ago. This discovery aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, which aims to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment.
Historical Context
The skull of a man aged between 30 to 35 years, part of the Duckworth Laboratory collection at the University of Cambridge, shows multiple lesions indicative of bone damage from malignant tumors. The skull, labeled 236, dates back to between 2686 BC and 2345 BC, making it one of the oldest examples of malignancy in the ancient world.
Methodology and Findings
Researchers utilized digital microscopy and micro-computed tomography (CT) scans to examine the tumor scars on the skull. They discovered cut marks around the tumors, indicating the use of sharp metal instruments for removal. These findings were published in the journal Frontiers in Medicine.
- The study suggests the possibility of ancient surgical intervention for cancer treatment.
- It remains unclear whether these surgeries occurred pre or post-mortem.
Medical Knowledge and Mastery in Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptian medicine, as documented in texts like the Ebers Papyrus and the Kahun Papyrus, was advanced and included surgical practices. The new evidence supports this sophistication and offers direct proof of their medical knowledge.
- Modern technologies are revealing more details about ancient Egyptian medical arts.
- The research provides a solid direction for reevaluating the history of medicine among ancient Egyptians.
Additional Evidence
A second skull from the Duckworth collection, labeled E270, showed cancer lesions but no signs of surgical intervention. However, it did contain healed fractures, indicating successful medical treatment for head injuries.
Writing Cancer’s Biography
The study of these skulls provides scientific evidence about pathology and medicine development in ancient Egypt. Utilizing modern techniques like CT scans and DNA sequencing can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of ancient Egyptian medicine.
A Medical Milestone
The Edwin Smith Surgical Papyrus, dating back to around 3000 BC to 2500 BC, contains the earliest recorded observation of cancer. While ancient Egyptians recognized cancer, they lacked treatments for it. The incisions found on skull tumors suggest an attempt to either treat or understand the disease better.
Conclusion
The discovery of potential surgical treatment of cancer in ancient Egypt is a significant milestone in medical history. It not only sheds light on the medical prowess of ancient civilizations but also contributes to our understanding of cancer’s long history with humanity. This knowledge can inform current health strategies aligned with SDG 3, emphasizing the importance of historical context in modern medical advancements.
Report compiled by Mindy Weisberger, science writer and media producer.
Analysis of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators in the Article
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The article discusses ancient Egyptian medical practices related to cancer treatment. The relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) connected to this topic are:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Specific targets under SDG 3 that can be identified are:
- Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
While the article does not explicitly mention indicators, the following can be implied:
- Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease.
4. Create a table with three columns titled ‘SDGs, Targets and Indicators” to present the findings from analyzing the article.
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being. | Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease. |
Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.
Fuente: cnn.com
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