From ancient Egyptian surgical procedures to modern genetic therapies, Mukherjee traces how our comprehension of cancer has transformed over millennia. This evolution reveals not just scientific progress, but also how human perception of disease has shifted from viewing it as a curse to understanding it as a complex biological phenomenon.

Through intimate patient stories and historical accounts, the book illuminates the profound human impact of both cancer and its treatments. The narrative examines how medical advances, though ultimately beneficial, often came at great personal cost to patients who served as pioneers in experimental treatments.

The book demonstrates how each breakthrough in cancer treatment resulted from relentless scientific inquiry and collaboration. Despite numerous setbacks, the persistent pursuit of understanding has led to revolutionary treatments and continues to drive progress in the field.