The Surprising Cancer-Fighting Potential of the 'Useless' Organ
A retrospective study suggests that the thymus gland, often considered "useless" in adulthood, may actually play a crucial role in maintaining adult health. Researchers found that individuals who had their thymus removed faced an increased risk of death from any cause and an increased risk of developing cancer. While the study cannot prove causation, researchers argue that preserving the thymus should be a clinical priority. The thymus is known to play a critical role in developing the immune system in childhood, and its removal can lead to long-term reductions in T-cells and impaired immune response. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these associations.
