After reading “Viruses and Human Cancer: From Detection to Causality,” I definitely understand the importance of researching the link between viruses and human cancer. Additionally, I feel that this article provides thorough template and background to guide future studies.

Thinking about what is next, I think research should primarily focus on KSHV, Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus. Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is characterized by the proliferation of spindle-like endothelial cells, angiogenesis and inflammation. This condition primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract along with the skin, resulting in lesions across a large proportion of the body. One of the main reasons I believe this virus should be the main focus of study is because of the geographical localization of these infections and occurrences. Given the broad prevalence of this, specifically in African countries and many parts of Europe and North America, research into this field could prove extremely beneficial in the long-term, providing relief to a large portion of the global population.

Previous research into this KSHV has shown that KSHV infection typically precedes the onset of KS, suggesting a direct link between KSHV and the development of KS, however, this has yet to be definitively determined. Despite this, understanding that infection of KSHV may lead to development of KS, the development of a vaccine or effective treatment strategies may aid prevention strategies. Preventative strategies are much more effective than responsive or reactive treatment. Thus, this field has already laid out the foundational research to aid us in developing effective strategies to reduce the incidence of KS in the general population, which should be one of the primary focuses in this field, in my opinion.