On the need for integrating cancer into the One Health perspective

Area of Science:

• Integrative health sciences
• Comparative oncology
• Ecosystem health

Background:

• The "One Health" concept links human, animal, and environmental health, crucial for pandemic preparedness.
• Current "One Health" focus is primarily on zoonotic diseases, neglecting oncogenic processes.
• Human activities significantly impact the natural environment, influencing cancer emergence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the inclusion of cancer as a key focus within the "One Health" framework.
• To highlight the interconnectedness of human activities, animal oncogenesis, and transmissible cancers.
• To explore the potential of cross-species cancer research for human health advancements.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on the "One Health" concept and its limitations.
• Analysis of the impact of anthropogenic factors on animal oncogenesis and wildlife health.
• Examination of the ecological and epidemiological implications of transmissible cancers.
• Exploration of translational research opportunities in comparative oncology.

Main Results:

• Human activities directly contribute to oncogenesis in animal populations, increasing disease susceptibility.
• Transmissible cancers represent a significant threat to biodiversity and could emerge as pandemics.
• Comparative analysis of tumor suppressor mechanisms across species offers novel therapeutic insights.

Conclusions:

• Integrating cancer research into the "One Health" approach is essential for a holistic understanding of health.
• Addressing oncogenic processes in animals is critical for preventing zoonotic spillovers and conserving biodiversity.
• Cross-species cancer research holds significant promise for developing innovative human cancer prevention and treatment strategies.