The thymus is a gland located in the upper chest, behind the sternum. In early childhood, it begins to produce special substances responsible for the development of the immune system, which in turn fulfills a vital life-preserving function. Without the thymus gland, we would have no means of an effective immunological defense. It serves a very important purpose in regulating the immune system, stimulating an immune response and delays the aging process.
The immune system is a complex and highly organized system consisting of different types of immune cells responsible for destroying foreign pathogens (viruses, bacteria, etc.) and abnormal (pre-cancerous or cancerous) cells. A strong, healthy immune system will help prevent cancer and other illnesses. However, if the immune system cannot cope with the cancer or infection, disease ensues.