Paleopathology is the study of ancient diseases and injuries in humans, animals, and even plants through the analysis of skeletal remains, mummies, and other archaeological evidence. It helps researchers understand how diseases evolved, how past populations coped with health issues, and how environmental and cultural factors influenced health over time. By examining bones, teeth, and preserved soft tissues, paleopathologists can identify conditions like infections, malnutrition, trauma, arthritis, and even cancers in ancient populations.