Comparative Oncology

Comparative oncology is a relatively new branch of medical research, a branch of comparative pathology focused on research into tumors, and how they compare across different life forms--plant, animal and human. It tends to be focused on ways to cure cancer.

Origins of Comparative Oncology

• It has been known for a long time that most complex cellular lifeforms can form tumors. While this is a fairly obvious and simple fact, it does lead scientists into being able to study more complex areas, including regulation of cell division, differentiation, growth, and cell socialization.

Branches of Comparative Oncology

• There are two recognized branches of comparative oncology: spontaneous oncology and experimental oncology. Spontaneous oncology is the research of spontaneous tumors in both animals and humans. Experimental oncology researches viral, chemical, polluting residues, food additives, environmental conditions, and other possible causes of tumors. Both can be used to create a new understanding of and treatments for cancer.

Findings of Comparative Oncology

• While it is still a fairly new practice, some findings are already helping scientists move forward in the quest for a cure for cancer. For instance, very few types of tumors are not common to both animals and humans, and the similarities far outweigh the differences. This strongly upholds suggestions that cell formation and socialization is a factor in both causing and curing cancer.