7 of the World’s Oldest Diseases

Throughout human history, some diseases have plagued us for thousands—even millions—of years, leaving an indelible mark on civilizations and shaping the course of our evolution. While modern medicine has made tremendous strides in treating and preventing many illnesses, some of the world’s oldest diseases continue to persist, reminding us of the deep-rooted challenges we face. In this article, we explore the origins, history, and ongoing impact of these ancient afflictions, revealing how they have baffled, tormented, and sometimes even strengthened humanity across the ages.

Cancer: Over 1.7 Million Years Old

Cancer is one of the oldest known diseases, with evidence dating back over 1.7 million years. Researchers discovered the world’s oldest known malignant tumor in a hominin toe bone in South Africa. The tumor was identified as osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Cancer has been a persistent affliction throughout human history, with evidence also found in Egyptian mummies from 2250 years ago, highlighting its long-standing presence in human and pre-human species.¹

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Tuberculosis: At Least 70,000 Years Old

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of humanity’s oldest and deadliest diseases, with its origins tracing back at least 70,000 years. It primarily affects the lungs and is spread through airborne droplets. Evidence of TB has been found in the skeletal remains of prehistoric humans, and it continues to be a significant global health challenge today. Despite advances in treatment, TB remains the second deadliest infectious disease after COVID-19, claiming 1.3 million lives in 2022.

Dental Caries: At Least 15,000 Years Old

Dental caries, or tooth decay, is another ancient affliction. It was long believed that hunter-gatherers avoided tooth decay due to their low-carb diet. However, studies have found evidence of severe dental caries in a 15,000-year-old hunter-gatherer society in Morocco. The likely culprits were the starchy foods they consumed, such as acorns and pine nuts, which contributed to widespread tooth decay long before the advent of agriculture.

Malaria: Over 5500 Years Old

Malaria is a parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes, with its origins dating back at least 5500 years. Genetic studies have revealed that malaria was present in ancient human populations, and it remains a major public health issue today, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The disease continues to cause millions of cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths annually, primarily among children.

Lyme Disease: At Least 5300 Years Old

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, has been traced back to the Copper Age, approximately 5300 years ago. The oldest evidence of Lyme disease was found in the remains of Ötzi the Iceman, a well-preserved mummy discovered in the Alps. Lyme disease, transmitted by ticks, is now one of the most common vector-borne diseases in the Northern Hemisphere.

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Leishmaniasis: Over 4000 Years Old

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, with evidence dating back over 4000 years. It primarily affects the skin and mucous membranes, leading to disfiguring ulcers and, in severe cases, organ damage. Ancient Egyptian and Nubian mummies have shown signs of Leishmaniasis, and the disease remains endemic in many tropical and subtropical regions today.

Thousands of Years Old

Cholera is an ancient disease, with the first definitive descriptions appearing in texts from ancient Greece. However, it likely originated even earlier in the Ganges River region, where population density and contaminated water sources allowed the bacteria to thrive. Cholera continues to be a global health threat, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.²

Staying Vigilant

These ancient diseases remind us of the enduring challenges humanity has faced in combating illness. Despite advances in medicine and public health, many of these diseases still persist, highlighting the importance of continued research and intervention.

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