Ancient Egyptians attempted to surgically treat cancer as early as 4,000 years ago, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution. Researchers analyzed a human skull from the University of Cambridge’s Duckworth Collection, dating back to between 2686 and 2345 B.C., which revealed evidence of a large primary tumor and over 30 smaller, metastatic lesions. The lesions displayed cut marks, possibly made using a sharp metal instrument, indicating an attempt at surgical intervention. Additionally, the team examined a skull from a 50-year-old woman who lived between 664 and 343 B.C., which exhibited a large skull lesion suggestive of cancer, as well as healed traumatic injuries. These findings suggest that cancer was a medical challenge in ancient Egypt, with attempts at treatment but limited success. The research provides insight into the origins of modern medicine and highlights the long-standing struggle against cancer.