Cancer is a complex disease defined as an uncontrolled cellular growth, primarily caused by genetic mutations interfering with normal cell cycle control, leading to the development and progression of tumors. The rise in global cancer cases is strongly associated with the aging population. By 2050, the United States is projected to experience a nearly 50% rise in cancer cases, largely due to population growth and aging. While cancer incidence and mortality rates are decreasing in industrialized Western countries, there is a rising trend in economically transitioning and less developed regions, driven by unhealthy lifestyles including smoking, lack of physical activity, and consumption of high-calorie diets, which are significant contributors to rising cancer rates, especially in developing nations. The decline in natural selection over the past 150 years has led to an accumulation of harmful genetic mutations, further increasing cancer risks. Exposure to toxic substances also plays a significant role in the development of cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is vital in cancer progression, with its interactions influencing treatment outcomes and prognosis. Environmental toxicants continue to present significant risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate these risks and improve cancer prevention and treatment.