Cancer differs from most other diseases in that it can develop at any stage in life and in any body organ. No two cancer cases behave exactly alike. Some may follow an aggressive course, with the cancer growing rapidly. Other types grow slowly or may remain dormant for years. Very high cure rates can be achieved for some types of cancers, but for others the cure rates are disappointingly low and await improved methods of detection and treatment. The wide range of cancer treatments and associated services reflects the biological diversity of cancer. The most common stage of cancer at diagnosis, the rate of progression, and the treatment options vary significantly with the type of cancer a patient presents. It is estimated that about 80% of cancers are due to environment or lifestyle, and therefore are potentially preventable.1 The risk factors for some cancers have been clearly identified, but for others further research is needed. Based on current evidence, at least 30%of future cancer cases are preventable by comprehensive and carefully considered action, taken now.2 The cancer treatment that a patient receives is determined by the stage of cancer at diagnosis, the type and location of the cancer, the standard medical practices and treatment guidelines in the patient’s country,3 and the ability of the patient to pay for treatment (through national or private insurance or otherwise). For most solid tumours, if the cancer is at a relatively early stage of development, surgery is the most standard and effective form of initial cancer treatment. This is often combined with radiation therapy to the tumour bed and systemic therapy as the goal is curative treatment. As cancers progress, treatments typically include radiation, chemotherapy, in hormone-regulated tumours, and hormone ablation therapy. Targeted therapy is becoming increasingly available in appropriate cases.