Certain popular ideas about how cancer grows and spreads are scientifically wrong, especially when those ideas are coming from old theories. The wrong perception of cancer can lead to unnecessary worry and even hamper good treatment as well as prevention decisions. So, here we will discuss the latest science-based information about some common cancer myths and misconceptions.

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The Most Common Cancer Myths and Misconception:

Is cancer a Death Sentence?

This is one of the most common cancer myths, which is not actually true. The likelihood of dying from cancer has dropped since the 1990s. Five-year survival rates for many cancers, like breast, prostate, and thyroid cancers, now are 90 percent or more. The 5-year survival rate for all cancers combined is currently around 67 percent.

It is important to notice, however, that these rates are based on data from huge numbers of people. The life of an individual cancer patient and whether he or she will die from cancer depend on many factors, including the rate of growth of cancer, how much cancer has spread inside the body, whether effective treatments are available or not, the person’s overall health, and so on.

Is cancer contagious?

No, cancer does not come under the category of contagious diseases. The only situation that can spread cancer from one person to another is in the case of tissue or organ transplantation. A person who receives a tissue or organ from a donor who had cancer in the past may be at increased risk of developing transplant-related cancer in the future. However, this risk is extremely low, around two cases of cancer per 10,000 organ transplants. Doctors avoid the use of tissue or organs from donors who have a history of cancer.

Does My Attitude Determine My Risk of Cancer?

Till date, there is no strong scientific evidence that links a person’s “attitude” to his or her risk of developing or dying from cancer. If you have cancer, it’s normal to feel angry, sad, or discouraged sometimes and upbeat or positive at other times. People with a positive attitude can be more likely to stay active, maintain social connections, and their physical activity and emotional support may help them cope with the disease.

Can a Tumor Biopsy or Surgery Cause Cancer to Spread in the Body?

Actually, the chance that surgery will cause cancer to spread to other parts of the body is extremely low. Following the standard process, surgeons use particular methods and take many steps to prevent cancer cells from spreading during biopsies or surgeries to remove tumors.

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Do Cell Phones or Mobiles Cause Cancer?

According to the studies so far, using mobile phones is not the cause of cancer. Cancer is caused by genetic mutations, while cell phones emit a type of low-frequency energy that can not damage genes. For more information, you can recommend the NCI fact sheet on cell phones and cancer risk.

If Anyone in My Family has Cancer, am I at the Risk of Cancer, too?

Cancer is caused by harmful changes within genes. These changes stay for quite a long time in the body or might even pass to the next generation. Only around 5 to 10 percent of cancers are caused by harmful mutations (genes) which are inherited from parents. In families with an inherited cancer-causing gene, multiple family members will usually develop the same type of cancer. These cancers are called “hereditary” or “familial” cancers.

Do Deodorants or Antiperspirants Cause Breast Cancer?

No, it is also considered as a common cancer myth. According to the studies so far, no evidence is found to be linked with the chemicals found in antiperspirants and deodorants with changes in breast tissue.

Does the Use of Hair Dye Increase the Risk of Cancer?

There is no powerful scientific evidence that use of hair dye increases the risk of cancer. Some studies recommend, however, that barbers and hairdressers who are regularly exposed to large quantities of chemical products like hair dye and others may have an increased risk of bladder cancer.

Conclusion:

So, above are the common cancer myths, which we should not believe. As we all know that cancer is a disease which is self-sufficient to make someone anxious, moreover,  myths can make it worse. If you are worried about cancer or any of its myths, you can consult a doctor about it which would help you to feel relax.

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