10 misconceptions about cancer that you should stop believing
Tumors previously perceived as a death sentence can now be successfully treated, especially if the disease is detected in the early stages. Doctors and scientists continue to work towards the complete eradication of cancer. However, there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding cancer. In this material, oncologist Evgenia Kharchenko, PhD, debunks the most common of them.
Contents of the article:
- Myth No. 1: Oncology is transmitted from person to person
- Myth #2: Cancer is a genetically determined disease
- Myth #3: Sugar promotes cancer progression
- Myth #4: Chemotherapy causes more harm than the cancer itself
- Myth #5: There are cures for cancer, but they are hidden
- Myth #6: Cancer can be caused by cosmetic procedures
- Myth #7: Mobile devices cause brain tumors
- Myth #8: Genetically modified organisms cause cancer
- Myth #9: Wearing a bra causes breast cancer
- Myth #10: Cancer didn’t exist in the past
Myth No. 1: Oncology is transmitted from person to person
Some precancerous conditions are caused by viruses and bacteria, which can actually be transmitted through contact. These include the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cancer of the cervix, anal canal, and head and neck tumors; hepatitis B and C viruses, associated with the development of liver cancer; the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which causes gastritis and increases the risk of stomach cancer; and the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes lymphoma.
It is important to understand that oncological diseases usually develop against the background of previous pathologies – cervical dysplasia, gastritis, peptic ulcer, liver cirrhosis and others. Therefore, to prevent cancer, it is important to diagnose and treat infections in a timely manner, as well as lead a healthy lifestyle.
Myth #2: Cancer is a genetically determined disease
Of course, a family history of some types of cancer increases the likelihood of developing it, but this likelihood is not 100%. According to various estimates, up to 40% of cancer can be avoided by changing lifestyle and eliminating harmful factors, such as:
- Unbalanced diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Alcohol consumption
- Overweight
However, if you have inherited syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or BRCA mutations, it is recommended to undergo testing and screening much more often. Modern molecular diagnostic methods make it possible to identify genetic risks in advance, which helps to take preventive measures and choose the most effective surveillance strategy.
Myth #3: Sugar promotes cancer progression
All cells of the body, including tumor cells, need glucose as a source of energy. However, increasing sugar intake does not stimulate the growth of cancer cells. Likewise, reducing dietary sugar does not slow tumor development. Cells use exactly the amount of glucose they need, and in conditions of deficiency they find alternative methods of obtaining energy.
However, excess sugar consumption is associated with obesity, and excess weight is a risk factor for the development of several cancers. Therefore, a balanced diet and weight control remain important aspects of cancer prevention.
Myth #4: Chemotherapy causes more harm than the cancer itself.
Although chemotherapy is often associated with side effects, modern supportive treatments can minimize or eliminate these side effects, making the therapy safer and more tolerable for the patient. In addition, targeted therapy and immunotherapy are being developed, which have a more selective effect and reduce the toxicity of treatment.
Comprehensive rehabilitation of patients after chemotherapy is also important, including proper nutrition, physical activity and psychological support, which improves the quality of life and promotes successful recovery.
Myth #5: There are cures for cancer, but they are hidden.
Pharmaceutical companies, government agencies and medical institutions are often accused of hiding cancer prescriptions. However, in scientific centers around the world there are specialists who have literally dedicated their lives to the search for effective treatment methods. Laboratory equipment often surpasses even space technology in terms of technical equipment, and scientists compete for the right to be the first to publish their findings.
Competition also extends to pharmaceutical companies: the more effective the drug, the higher its commercial success and the profit of the manufacturer.
At the same time, states bear huge costs for the treatment of the working population, which makes them interested in improving the results of therapy.
Oncologists dream of seeing the day when their work will become twice as easy, and patients will have stable remission thanks to the discoveries of scientists and pharmaceutical companies.
In addition, all new treatments undergo multi-stage clinical trials and rigorous safety testing before becoming available to patients. Research transparency and international collaboration help accelerate innovation into clinical practice.
Myth #6: Cancer can be caused by cosmetic procedures.
Hair dyes, UV lamps and laser hair removal are most often mentioned in connection with oncology. In the 1980s, paints did contain potentially dangerous substances that could increase the risk of diseases such as lymphoma or breast cancer. Modern formulations have changed dramatically, and in 2010 the International Agency for Research on Cancer said there was insufficient evidence linking hair dyes to cancer.
When it comes to UV nail drying lamps, there is no research linking them to skin melanoma. To obtain minimal risk of cancer, nails must be dried under a lamp every day for more than 123 years.
Laser hair removal acts exclusively on the hair follicles without affecting the skin or emitting ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, laser cannot cause skin cancer or melanoma.
It is important to remember that when choosing cosmetic procedures, it is better to contact trusted specialists and use high-quality materials to reduce the risk of any negative reactions and complications.
Myth #7: Mobile devices cause brain tumors
Despite the widespread use of mobile phones, concerns remain about the link between cell phone radiation and brain tumors. Many people believe that radio waves emanating from phones affect the body’s cells.
In fact, the radiation power of mobile devices is too low to have such an effect and cause cancer. International studies, including WHO data, do not confirm a direct link between the use of mobile phones and the development of brain tumors.
However, it is recommended to follow simple safety rules: use a headset, reduce the duration of calls and do not hold the phone close to your head while sleeping.
Myth #8: Genetically modified organisms cause cancer
GMOs are foods whose genetic material has been altered by humans. Although selective breeding has been used since ancient times, there is no scientific evidence that the consumption of GMOs is harmful and contributes to the development of cancer.
Regulatory authorities in various countries conduct rigorous safety assessments of GMO foods before allowing them to be used in the food industry. Today, scientific evidence shows that GMO products are safe for human health.
Myth #9: Wearing a bra causes breast cancer.
The opinion that a bra compresses the lymphatic vessels and provokes the development of breast cancer has no basis. A 2014 study of 1, 500 women found no link between wearing a bra and developing breast cancer.
It is important to choose comfortable and properly selected underwear to maintain health and comfort, but it does not affect the occurrence of malignant tumors.
Myth #10: Cancer didn’t exist in the past.
The number of new cancer cases has indeed increased in recent decades, but this is due to increased life expectancy and improved diagnostic and screening methods. The development of medicine and the emergence of new drugs have made people’s lives longer. And age is a major risk factor for many types of cancer: about 75% of patients are diagnosed after age 60. Therefore, to say that “to live long” dangerous, in a sense fair.
Over time, DNA damage and mutations accumulate in cells, increasing the likelihood of tumor formation. In addition, high information pressure and constant campaigns to raise funds for treatment create the illusion among many that cancer is everywhere.
It is important to remember that regular medical examinations, timely vaccinations (for example, against HPV and hepatitis B), smoking cessation and a healthy lifestyle significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer and contribute to early detection, which increases the chances of successful treatment.
