The phrase "to remove the cancer" means to get rid of something harmful or destructive. It is often used metaphorically to describe eliminating a problem or a negative influence from a situation or organization. Full definition
This is why it is so important that a surgeon — who removes cancer from the breast — and the whole multidisciplinary team need work together to fight breast cancer. (roswellpark.org)
One theory is that the immune system starts to work less well, so it doesn't remove all cancer cells. (ergo-log.com)
Every time I enter the operating room, my entire focus and effort is directed toward completely removing the cancer. (nyulangone.org)