THE TRUTH ABOUT CANCER: DEBUNKING COMMON MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS

In this blogpost, I will talk about some of the common myths and misconceptions about cancer and how to debunk them. Cancer is a group of diseases that can affect any part of the body and cause abnormal cells to grow out of control. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but it can also be prevented and treated if detected early. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about cancer that can create fear, confusion, and stigma among people. These myths and misconceptions can also prevent people from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment, or from adopting healthy lifestyle habits that can reduce the risk of cancer. Therefore, it is important to clear these myths and misconceptions with facts and evidence, and to raise awareness and education about cancer among the general public of India. Here are some of the common myths and misconceptions about cancer and how to debunk them:

Myth 1: Cancer is a death sentence.

FACT: Cancer is NOT a death sentence. With advances in science and technology, many cancers can be cured or controlled with effective treatments. The survival rates of cancer patients have improved significantly over the years, especially for some cancers such as breast, prostate, thyroid, and testicular cancers. The survival rates also depend on factors such as the type, stage, location, and aggressiveness of the cancer, as well as the availability and accessibility of treatment facilities, the patient’s overall health, and the quality of care. Therefore, it is crucial to detect cancer early and seek appropriate treatment as soon as possible.

Myth 2: Cancer is contagious.

FACT: Cancer is NOT CONTAGIOUS. You cannot catch cancer from someone who has it. Cancer is caused by genetic mutations or changes in the DNA of cells that make them grow abnormally. These mutations can be inherited from parents or acquired during one’s lifetime due to exposure to certain risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol, radiation, infections, or chemicals. However, some infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV) or hepatitis B or C can increase the risk of developing certain cancers such as cervical or liver cancers. These infections can be transmitted from person to person through sexual contact or blood transfusion, but not the cancers they cause.

Myth 3: Cancer is always genetic.

FACT: Cancer is NOT ALWAYS genetic. Although some cancers have a strong genetic component or predisposition, most cancers are not inherited from parents. Only about 5-10% of all cancers are caused by inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of developing certain cancers in families. The majority of cancers are caused by acquired gene mutations that occur during one’s lifetime due to exposure to various risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol, radiation, infections, or chemicals. Therefore, it is important to avoid or limit these risk factors and adopt healthy lifestyle habits that can prevent or reduce the risk of cancer.

Myth 4: Eating sugar can make cancer worse, or artificial sweeteners can cause cancer.

FACT: Eating SUGAR DOES NOT make cancer worse, nor do artificial sweeteners cause cancer. It is true that cancer cells consume more glucose (sugar) than normal cells for their energy needs, but this does not mean that eating sugar will feed or fuel the growth of cancer cells. The amount of sugar in your blood is regulated by your body regardless of how much sugar you eat. However, eating too much sugar can lead to obesity

and diabetes, which are associated with an increased risk of developing several types of cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to limit your intake of added sugars and follow a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Artificial sweeteners are synthetic substances that are used to replace sugar in foods and beverages. They are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are considered safe for human consumption. There is no conclusive evidence that artificial sweeteners cause cancer in humans. However, some animal studies have suggested that high doses of some artificial sweeteners such as saccharin or aspartame may increase the risk of bladder or brain cancers in rats. These results have not been replicated in humans, and the doses used in these studies were much higher than the amounts consumed by humans. Therefore, there is no need to avoid artificial sweeteners completely, but it is better to use them in moderation.

Myth 5: Antiperspirants or deodorants can cause breast cancer.

FACT: Antiperspirants or deodorants DO NOT cause breast cancer. There is no scientific evidence that links the use of antiperspirants or deodorants with breast cancer. Some people may believe that antiperspirants or deodorants can block the sweat glands in the armpits and prevent the release of toxins from the body, which may accumulate in the breast tissue and cause cancer. However, this is not true. The sweat glands in the armpits are not connected to the lymph nodes or the breast tissue, and sweating does not eliminate toxins from the body. The liver and kidneys are responsible for filtering and removing toxins from the blood.

Some people may also believe that antiperspirants or deodorants contain harmful chemicals such as aluminium or parabens that can be absorbed through the skin and cause cancer. However, this is also not true. The amount of aluminium or parabens that can be absorbed through the skin is very small and unlikely to have any harmful effects on the body. Moreover, there is no conclusive evidence that aluminium or parabens can cause cancer in humans. The American Cancer Society states that “there are no strong epidemiologic studies in the medical literature that link breast cancer risk and antiperspirant use, and very little scientific evidence to support this claim.”

Myth 6: Cancer is a modern disease caused by environmental pollution.

FACT: Cancer is NOT A MODERN DISEASE caused by environmental pollution. Cancer has existed since ancient times, as evidenced by fossils, mummies, and historical records that show signs of tumors or cancers in humans and animals. However, cancer was less common in the past because people lived shorter lives and died of other causes such as infections, wars, famines, or accidents. As life expectancy has increased over the years due to improvements in hygiene, sanitation, nutrition, medicine, and technology, more people have survived to older ages when cancer is more likely to occur.

Environmental pollution is one of the risk factors for cancer, but it is not the only or the main cause of cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), environmental pollution accounts for about 19% of all cancers worldwide. Other risk factors include tobacco use (22%), infections (15%), obesity (10%), alcohol use (5%), radiation (3%), and genetics (5%). Therefore, it is important to reduce exposure to environmental pollutants such as air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, pesticides, asbestos, or heavy metals, but it is also important to avoid or limit other risk factors and adopt healthy lifestyle habits that can prevent or reduce the risk of cancer.

Myth 7: Cancer treatment is worse than cancer itself.

FACT: Cancer treatment is NOT WORSE than cancer itself. Cancer treatment can have side effects such as hair loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pain, infection, or bleeding, but these are usually temporary and manageable. Cancer treatment can also have long-term effects such as infertility, nerve damage, heart problems, or secondary cancers, but these are rare and can be prevented or treated with regular follow-up and care. The benefits of cancer treatment outweigh the risks, as it can cure or control the cancer, reduce the symptoms, improve the quality of life, and increase the survival of the patients.

Cancer treatment is not the same for everyone. It depends on the type, stage, location, and aggressiveness of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health, preferences, and goals. There are different types of cancer treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, or stem cell transplant. Each type of treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages, and may work better for some cancers than others. Sometimes, a combination of treatments may be used to achieve the best results. The doctor will discuss the options and recommendations with the patient and help them make an informed decision.

Myth 8: Cancer is a single disease.

FACT: Cancer is NOT a single disease. Cancer is a generic term for a group of more than 100 different diseases that can affect any part of the body and cause abnormal cells to grow out of control. Each type of cancer has its own characteristics, causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis methods, treatment options, and prognosis. Even within the same type of cancer, there may be variations in the molecular profile, genetic mutations, or response to treatment among different patients. Therefore, cancer is not a one-size-fits-all disease. It requires personalized and precision medicine that takes into account the individual differences and needs of each patient.

Myth 9: Cancer can be cured by alternative therapies.

FACT: Cancer CANNOT be cured by alternative therapies. Alternative therapies are treatments that are used instead of conventional medicine. They include methods such as herbal remedies, homeopathy, acupuncture, meditation, yoga, or dietary supplements. There is no scientific evidence that alternative therapies can cure or treat cancer. In fact, some alternative therapies may be harmful or interfere with the effectiveness of conventional treatments. For example, some herbal remedies may contain toxic substances or interact with chemotherapy drugs and cause adverse effects.

Some people may choose to use alternative therapies because they believe they are natural or safer than conventional treatments. However, natural does not mean safe or effective. Alternative therapies are not regulated or tested for safety or efficacy like conventional treatments. They may also be expensive and not covered by insurance. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with your doctor before using any alternative therapies and to inform them about any alternative therapies you are using or planning to use.

Myth 10: Nothing can prevent cancer.

FACT: Nothing can prevent cancer completely, but many things CAN REDUCE THE RISK of developing cancer. According to the WHO, about 30-50% of all cancers can be prevented by avoiding or limiting exposure to known risk factors and by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Some of the things that can prevent or reduce the risk of cancer are:

Avoiding tobacco use or exposure to second-hand smoke, as tobacco is the single most preventable cause of cancer worldwide.
Limiting alcohol consumption, as alcohol can increase the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and breast.
Maintaining a healthy weight, as obesity can increase the risk of cancers of the breast, colon, uterus, kidney, and pancreas.
Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, and limits red meat, processed meat, salt, and sugar.
Being physically active for at least 30 minutes a day, as physical activity can lower the risk of cancers of the colon, breast, and uterus.
Protecting yourself from excessive sun exposure or artificial tanning, as ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause skin cancer and eye damage.
Getting vaccinated against infections that can cause cancer, such as HPV or hepatitis B.
Getting screened regularly for cancers that can be detected early and treated effectively, such as cervical, breast, colorectal, or prostate cancers.
Seeking medical attention if you notice any unusual changes in your body or symptoms that persist or worsen over time.

These are some of the common myths and misconceptions about cancer and how to debunk them. I hope this blogpost has helped you clear your doubts and learn more about cancer. Cancer is a complex and challenging disease, but it is not hopeless. With awareness, education, prevention, early detection, and treatment, we can fight cancer and save lives.

MYTH 11: Biopsy causes faster spread of cancer.

FACT: Biopsy DOES NOT cause faster spread of cancer. Biopsy is a procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue from a suspicious area and examining it under a microscope to check for cancer cells. Biopsy is one of the most reliable and accurate ways to diagnose cancer and determine its type, grade, and stage. Biopsy can also help plan the best treatment options for the patient.

Some people may fear that biopsy can cause cancer to spread by disturbing the tumor or allowing cancer cells to escape into the bloodstream or lymphatic system. However, this is very unlikely to happen. The doctors who perform biopsies are trained and experienced in using safe and sterile techniques that minimize the risk of infection or bleeding. They also use special needles or instruments that seal the tissue around the biopsy site and prevent cancer cells from escaping. Moreover, most cancers are surrounded by a protective layer of tissue that acts as a barrier against cancer cells.

There is no evidence that biopsy causes faster spread of cancer. In fact, avoiding or delaying biopsy can be harmful, as it can delay the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and reduce the chances of survival. Therefore, it is advisable to follow your doctor’s recommendations and undergo biopsy if needed.

Myth 12: Cell phones, microwaves, and power lines can cause cancer.

FACT: Cell phones, microwaves, and power lines DO NOT cause cancer. These devices and sources emit non-ionizing radiation, which is a type of low-energy radiation that does not have enough power to damage the DNA of cells and cause cancer. Non-ionizing radiation can only heat up the tissues, but this is not harmful at the levels that are normally encountered. The only type of radiation that can cause cancer is ionizing radiation, which is a type of high-energy radiation that can break the bonds of DNA and cause mutations. Ionizing radiation comes from sources such as X-rays, gamma rays, or radioactive materials.

There is no conclusive evidence that cell phones, microwaves, or power lines can cause cancer in humans. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (such as those emitted by cell phones) as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on limited evidence from animal and human studies. However, this does not mean that they are proven to cause cancer, but rather that more research is needed to clarify the possible effects. The IARC has also classified extremely low frequency magnetic fields (such as those emitted by power lines) as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on limited evidence from human studies. However, this does not mean that they are proven to cause cancer, but rather that more research is needed to clarify the possible effects. The IARC has not classified microwaves as carcinogenic to humans.

Therefore, it is not necessary to avoid using cell phones, microwaves, or power lines completely, but it is prudent to use them wisely and reduce unnecessary exposure. For example, you can use a hands-free device or speakerphone when talking on your cell phone, keep your cell phone away from your body when not in use, avoid using your cell phone in areas with weak signals or when moving at high speeds, use a microwave oven that is in good condition and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and avoid living or working near high-voltage power lines if possible.

Myth 13: Superfoods can prevent or cure cancer.

FACT: Superfoods CANNOT PREVENT OR CURE cancer. Superfoods are foods that are claimed to have exceptional health benefits due to their high content of nutrients, antioxidants, or phytochemicals. Some examples of superfoods are berries, broccoli, garlic, green tea, turmeric, or kale. While these foods are healthy and nutritious, they are not magic bullets that can prevent or cure cancer by themselves. There is no single food or nutrient that can protect against or treat all types of cancer.

There is some evidence that certain foods or nutrients may have some protective effects against certain types of cancer by influencing the processes involved in cancer development such as inflammation, oxidation, or DNA repair. However, these effects are not strong or consistent enough to make definitive conclusions or recommendations. Moreover, the effects of foods or nutrients may depend on factors such as the dose, the timing, the combination, the preparation, the source, or the individual characteristics of the person consuming them.

Therefore, it is not advisable to rely on superfoods or supplements to prevent or cure cancer. Instead, it is advisable to follow a balanced and varied diet that includes a variety of foods from different food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A healthy diet can provide all the nutrients and antioxidants that are needed for optimal health and well-being. A healthy diet can also help maintain a healthy weight, which is one of the most important factors for preventing cancer.

Myth 14: Cancer surgery can cause cancer to spread.

FACT: Cancer surgery DOES NOT cause cancer to spread. Cancer surgery is a procedure that involves removing a tumor or a part of an organ that is affected by cancer. Cancer surgery can be done to cure or control the cancer, reduce the symptoms, improve the quality of life, or increase the survival of the patient. Cancer surgery is one of the most effective and common treatments for many types of cancer.

Some people may fear that cancer surgery can cause cancer to spread by exposing or disturbing the tumor or allowing cancer cells to escape into the bloodstream or lymphatic system. However, this is very unlikely to happen. The surgeons who perform cancer surgery are trained and experienced in using safe and precise techniques that minimize the risk of infection or bleeding. They also use special tools or methods that isolate or destroy any cancer cells that may be left behind after removing the tumor. Moreover, most cancers are surrounded by a protective layer of tissue that acts as a barrier against cancer cells.

There is no evidence that cancer surgery causes cancer to spread. In fact, avoiding or delaying cancer surgery can be harmful, as it can allow the cancer to grow larger or deeper and spread to other parts of the body and reduce the chances of survival. Therefore, it is advisable to follow your doctor’s recommendations and undergo cancer surgery if needed.

Myth 15: Stress can cause cancer.

FACT: Stress DOES NOT cause cancer. Stress is a normal and natural response to challenging or threatening situations. Stress can have physical, mental, or emotional effects on the body and mind. Stress can affect different people in different ways, depending on the type, intensity, duration, and frequency of the stressor, as well as the coping skills, personality, and support system of the person experiencing stress.

There is no conclusive evidence that stress can cause cancer in humans. The link between stress and cancer is complex and not well understood. Some studies have suggested that stress may have some indirect or modifiable effects on cancer risk or outcome by influencing the immune system, the hormonal system, or the behavioral patterns of the person. For example, stress may weaken the immune system and make it less able to fight infections or cancer cells. Stress may also alter the levels of hormones such as cortisol or adrenaline and affect the growth or spread of some cancers. Stress may also lead to unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, drinking, overeating, or physical inactivity that can increase the risk of cancer.

However, these effects are not strong or consistent enough to make definitive conclusions or recommendations. Moreover, the effects of stress may depend on factors such as the type, intensity, duration, and frequency of the stressor, as well as the coping skills, personality, and support system of the person experiencing stress. Therefore, it is not possible to say that stress causes cancer or that avoiding stress prevents cancer.

However, it is advisable to manage stress in a healthy and positive way, as it can improve the quality of life and well-being of the person. There are many ways to cope with stress, such as relaxation techniques, meditation, yoga, exercise, hobbies, social support, counseling, or therapy. These methods can help reduce the negative effects of stress and enhance the positive effects of stress. They can also help prevent or reduce other health problems that may be associated with stress, such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or depression.

Myth 16: If you have a family history of cancer, you will get it too.

FACT: If you have a family history of cancer, you will NOT NECESSARILY get it too. Family history is one of the risk factors for cancer, but it is not the only or the main factor. Family history means having a close blood relative (such as a parent, sibling, or child) who has had cancer in the past or who has a genetic mutation that increases the risk of cancer. Family history can indicate a higher chance of developing certain cancers that have a strong genetic component or predisposition, such as breast, ovarian, colorectal, or prostate cancers. However, family history does not mean a definite or inevitable diagnosis of cancer.

Only about 5-10% of all cancers are caused by inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of developing certain cancers in families. The majority of cancers are caused by acquired gene mutations that occur during one’s lifetime due to exposure to various risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol, radiation, infections, or chemicals. Therefore, having a family history of cancer does not mean that you have inherited the gene mutation or that you will develop the same type or site of cancer as your relative. It also does not mean that you cannot prevent or reduce the risk of cancer by avoiding or limiting exposure to other risk factors and by adopting healthy lifestyle habits.

Therefore, it is not advisable to ignore or worry too much about your family history of cancer. Instead, it is advisable to be aware and informed about your family history of cancer and to share it with your doctor. Your doctor can help you assess your personal risk of cancer and advise you on the best ways to prevent, detect, or treat cancer. You may also benefit from genetic testing or counseling if you have a strong or suggestive family history of cancer. Genetic testing or counseling can help you determine whether you have inherited a gene mutation that increases your risk of cancer and what you can do about it.

Myth 17: There is a miracle cure for cancer.

FACT: There is NO MIRACLE CURE for cancer. Cancer is a complex and heterogeneous group of diseases that can affect any part of the body and cause abnormal cells to grow out of control. There is no single cause, treatment, or cure for all types of cancer. Each type of cancer has its own characteristics, causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis methods, treatment options, and prognosis. Even within the same type of cancer, there may be variations in the molecular profile, genetic mutations, or response to treatment among different patients. Therefore, cancer requires personalized and precision medicine that takes into account the individual differences and needs of each patient.

There are many types of conventional treatments for cancer such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, or stem cell transplant. Each type of treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages, and may work better for some cancers than others. Sometimes, a combination of treatments may be used to achieve the best results. The goal of conventional treatments is to cure or control the cancer, reduce the symptoms, improve the quality of life, or increase the survival of the patient.

There are also many types of alternative or complementary therapies for cancer such as herbal remedies, homeopathy, acupuncture

, meditation, yoga, or dietary supplements. These therapies are not proven to cure or treat cancer by themselves. They may have some benefits for some patients, such as reducing stress, improving mood, or enhancing well-being. However, they may also have some risks or harms, such as causing adverse effects, interfering with conventional treatments, or delaying diagnosis or treatment. Therefore, these therapies should not be used instead of conventional treatments, but only in addition to them and with the approval of the doctor.

There is no evidence that there is a miracle cure for cancer that can work for everyone and every type of cancer. In fact, some claims of miracle cures may be false, misleading, or fraudulent. They may exploit the hopes and fears of vulnerable patients and their families and take advantage of their lack of knowledge or information. They may also charge exorbitant fees or sell ineffective or harmful products or services. Therefore, it is advisable to be cautious and sceptical about any claims of miracle cures for cancer. It is also advisable to consult with your doctor before trying any new or unproven treatments for cancer.

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