Cancer Myths & Facts

Most people are terrified of hearing the word “Cancer”. How well do you know the disease?

There are over 200 conditions referred to as cancer. The disease occurs when cells multiply and mutate uncontrollably without normal cell death mechanisms in place. It is common for malignant cells to spread to other parts of the body and cause tissue damage. Misconceptions about cancer spread misinformation and can prevent people from getting diagnosed and getting the proper treatment. As a result, feelings of stigma and taboo can also develop around this disease.

There is a lot of conflicting information on cancer out there. Here are some facts behind the most common misconceptions about cancer. If you have questions about the accuracy of anything you hear or read, you can ask your health care team.

MYTH: The cancer virus is contagious.

FACT: Cancer is an infectious disease. Sometimes, cancers are caused by viruses and bacteria that can be spread from person to person. Cervical, anal, and some types of head and neck cancer are caused by types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Cancer in the liver can be caused by the viruses Hepatitis B and C. Bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori can cause stomach cancer. While the viruses and bacteria that cause some cancers can spread from person to person, the cancers caused by the viruses and bacteria cannot.

MYTH: Treatment for cancer hurts more than it cures.

FACT: The biggest reason for this myth is that cancer is often found at a late stage and that aggressive treatment is usually needed to recover. A late stage of cancer usually results in a very low survival rate, since the disease has spread to other parts of the body. Besides these side effects, aggressive chemotherapy and radiation therapy have a reputation for causing severe side effects, which has led many to doubt the effectiveness of conventional cancer treatments. The success rate of conventional treatment is much higher when cancer is detected at an early stage. When deciding about their treatment, those who are concerned about side effects should balance the importance of extending life with the quality of life.

MYTH: Microwave ovens, computers, and cell phones emit radiation that causes cancer.

FACT: People linked radiation with cancer when it was discovered that fallout from atomic bombs in World War 2 and the Chernobyl meltdown resulted in most cases of cancer caused by radioactive fallout. Unlike cell phones, computers, and microwave ovens, which use high-frequency radio waves, microwave ovens use low-frequency radio waves that do not harm your genes. People are often surprised to learn that we are surrounded by a lot of background radiation in the environment, and none of it causes cancer. It is important to be careful when in certain areas with high radiation, such as x-ray rooms or industrial sites. Typical signs are warning of radioactive hazards in these areas.

MYTH: Sugar aggravates cancer

FACT: According to a study, cancer cells consume more glucose (sugar) than other cells. It then led to the belief that sugar was feeding the cancer. Therefore, reducing sugar intake is believed to starve cancer cells.

Regardless of whether they are cancerous, all of our cells require glucose for energy. Sugar consumption is higher in cancer cells since they grow much faster compared to normal cells. Sugar does not appear to feed cancer cells in particular, nor does reducing sugar intake appear to slow down cancer development.

MYTH: You are more likely to get cancer if you have a family history of the disease.

FACT: Having a family history of cancer increases your risk of getting it, but it does not guarantee your future health. In about four out of ten cases, cancer can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes, including good eating habits, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, avoiding tobacco products, and limiting alcohol consumption. A doctor may recommend surgery or medication to decrease the chance that cancer will develop if you have inherited certain cancer genes.

MYTH: A lump is always cancerous

FACT: Many lumps found during screenings and medical exams are benign or are another condition entirely, such as a cyst. Tests are conducted by a doctor to determine whether a growth is benign, precancerous, or cancerous.

We all know about the seriousness of suffering from a disease like cancer. Hence, it’s important to stay aware of different misconceptions about cancer. It’s always better to consult an expert in case of questions about cancer. If you’re looking for the best medical expertise against cancer, get in touch with OMNI experts @ 8880101000 to know more.