Myths about cancer; True or false?
Although there is no miracle treatment to cure it or a 100% proven cause of its appearance, myths about cancer grow day by day around these issues; and keeping ourselves correctly informed is our best choice.
False Cancer Myths
Without a doubt, our main objective is to eradicate a series of unfounded ideas that create anxiety and false expectations in society regarding cancer.
Here are the most common cancer myths.
Cancer always hurts
Although it is a common symptom in the area where the tumour is located, not all patients manifest it. In particular, a disadvantage of the absence of pain in certain types of cancer is that it makes it difficult to diagnose and treat them early; often manifesting it when it is already very advanced. However, for those who do, there are countless treatment options to help manage and relieve pain.
Stress Causes Cancer
Some studies have shown that there is no verifiable link between stress and the development of cancer. While it is true that the mood and a calm lifestyle helps to better cope with the disease; stress cannot be considered a trigger for it.
Chemotherapy Eliminates the Good and the Bad
On the other hand, there are those who have dedicated themselves to negative campaigning against the main alternatives for cancer treatment. Although our body contains cells that are rapidly producing (for example, red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, the surface of the skin and/or hair follicles), another myth about cancer is that chemotherapy eliminates them. Obviously, the goal of this treatment is to destroy malignant cells that spread quickly to other parts of the body. However, this can affect healthy cells and produce side effects that limit or cause discomfort, but it does not eliminate them.
It is a modern pathology
This is totally false. Some research has revealed that cancer is a disease that dates back to 4000 years B.C., from ancient Egypt. In any case, what changes is that it is now possible to make an early and accurate diagnosis, thanks to the technological advances of our time.
Antiperspirants cause cancer
There are no scientific records that support the risk associated with the use of this personal hygiene product. Even so, many detractors maintain positions against its use and link it to an increase in the risk of cancer.
Cancer is contagious
Unquestionably, cancer is not a viral or bacterial disease that can be spread by having direct contact with a patient. However, those who suffer from an immune disease such as AIDS or hepatitis may experience a higher risk of developing some type of tumor.
Myths about cancer are true
While myths about cancer are generally false, there are also some rumors that contain a proven truth.
Many types of cancer are more common in certain families.
This is mainly due to a mutation of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are now considered risk factors.
As a result, this mutated gene is passed down between members of the same family and can manifest itself from one generation to the next.
Environmental factors may influence
Exposure to environmental factors, smoking, alcoholic beverages or chemical substances, increase the risk of developing cancer.
That is why, beyond the habits that we can easily control individually; It is important to take care of the use of personal protective equipment and comply with the recommendations issued by security personnel in work environments.
Drinking green tea prevents cancer
Green tea contains antioxidants.
As a result of several studies, these have been shown to help prevent cancer by inhibiting the proliferation of its cells.
Why do these myths originate?
As with many other situations, cancer myths have been forged from individual experiences and/or assumptions.
However, the real problem arises when this false idea manages to cause concern and even compromise a decision of prevention or treatment for the benefit of the patient.
That is why you should not echo rumors and clarify any concerns with a specialized professional.
