Do Sharks Get Cancer?

Despite the popular misconception, sharks do get cancer. Though anecdotal evidence suggests that they may get cancer much less frequently than humans do, there hasn't ever been a large-scale systematic study, so it's hard to say for sure. If it is true though, then researchers may be able to figure out ways to reduce the incidence of cancer in humans by studying why it is low in sharks.

More about sharks and cancer:

• One reason sharks may get cancer less than humans is because of the way their immune systems work. Humans produce most of their immune cells in their bones, which leaves a short lag time between production and the time the cells are providing immunity. Sharks produce their immune cells in other tissues, which may give them a faster immune response.


• Like humans, sharks seem to get cancer in response to environmental toxins, including asbestos. They also get other diseases, including bacterial infections and parasites.


• Many sharks are endangered, with an estimated 100 million being killed each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do sharks get cancer?

Yes, sharks can get cancer. Despite the myth that sharks are immune to this disease, research has shown that they can develop tumors. According to studies published in the Journal of Cancer Research, benign and malignant tumors have been found in sharks, debunking the long-held belief in their supposed immunity.

What types of cancer have been found in sharks?

Sharks have been found to suffer from various types of cancers, including chondromas, which are tumors of the cartilage, and melanomas. The Journal of Fish Diseases has documented cases of these cancers, indicating that the range of cancers in sharks is similar to that found in humans.

How common is cancer in shark populations?

Cancer occurrence in sharks is not as well-documented as in humans, but it is considered to be relatively rare. However, due to the elusive nature of sharks and the depths at which they live, obtaining accurate data is challenging. The rarity could be due to underreporting or the robust immune system of sharks, which may help in tumor suppression.

Has the study of shark cancer contributed to human cancer research?

Yes, the study of sharks has contributed to human cancer research. Scientists are interested in understanding how sharks' cartilage, which is not prone to calcification like human bones, might influence tumor growth. According to the American Cancer Society, while shark cartilage was once thought to offer cancer treatment benefits, scientific evidence does not support its effectiveness in humans.

What is the significance of sharks getting cancer in terms of medical research?

The fact that sharks can get cancer is significant because it challenges the misconception that these animals are immune to the disease, which has led to unsustainable practices like harvesting sharks for their cartilage. It also opens up new avenues for comparative oncology, studying cancer across different species to better understand and treat the disease in humans.

Are there any environmental factors that contribute to cancer in sharks?

Environmental factors such as pollution, habitat degradation, and exposure to toxic substances can contribute to cancer in sharks. Studies have indicated that pollutants like heavy metals and organochlorines, found in some marine environments, can lead to an increased risk of tumors in marine life, including sharks.