Cancer is one of the most widely discussed yet misunderstood diseases. Misinformation often spreads faster than facts, leading to unnecessary fear and confusion. Let’s set the record straight by debunking ten persistent myths with science-backed truths.
1. Myth: Cancer Is a Death Sentence
Truth: The majority believe that being diagnosed with cancer is the end of the tunnel. But, the diagnosis is not an automatic death sentence. As the cancer specialist doctor at ClearMedi states, many forms are highly treatable, especially when caught at an early stage. With the advancement in the medical field, be it in immunotherapy, precision medicine, or targeted therapies, the survival rates have increased drastically. For example, the five-year survival rate for early-stage breast cancer is around 99%. To win over cancer, one must focus on timely detection and appropriate treatment.
2. Myth: Sugar Feeds Cancer
Truth: While cancer cells consume glucose at a higher rate than normal cells, cutting out sugar entirely won’t starve a tumour. The human body works in a way that highly regulates blood sugar, which means it will produce glucose even if you eliminate it from your diet. That said, excessive sugar intake does support health issues like obesity and inflammation. These, in turn, increase the risk of cancer.
3. Myth: Mobile Phones Cause Brain Tumours
Truth: No credible study has found a direct link between mobile phone radiation and cancer. Phones emit non-ionising radiation, which lacks the energy to damage DNA. In contrast, high-energy radiation—such as from X-rays or UV rays—has been proven to cause cellular damage. Long-term research is ongoing, but so far, there’s no scientific basis for panic over mobile usage.
4. Myth: Cancer Is Contagious
Truth: You cannot “catch” cancer from another person. However, as the medical professionals at the cancer hospital Mysore studied, certain infections are such that if a person gets one, it increases the risk of cancer for that individual. Human papillomavirus (HPV) can result in cervical cancer, and hepatitis B and C can raise the likelihood of liver cancer. Vaccinations and regular screenings can considerably reduce these risks. But direct person-to-person transmission? That is not true.
5. Myth: Cancer Only Affects the Elderly
Truth: It is partially true that cancer does affect the elderly since ageing is a significant factor, but it does not mean that the issue is limited to them alone. Childhood cancers like leukaemia, as well as testicular cancer and certain lymphomas, are more prevalent in younger populations. Factors such as genetic predisposition and environmental exposures also play a role. This proves age does not discriminate against cancer.
6. Myth: Herbal Remedies Can Cure Cancer
Truth: The cancer specialist doctor is of the opinion that while some natural compounds have been developed into effective drugs, no such herbal remedy has been clinically proven to cure this disease. If one decides to rely solely on unproven treatments, then it can delay non-negotiable medical intervention, often with consequences that leave an individual with nothing but regrets.
7. Myth: If Cancer Doesn’t Run in My Family, I’m Safe
Truth: Only about 5-10% of cancers are directly inherited. The vast majority result from mutations acquired over a lifetime owing to factors like smoking, UV exposure, and even random genetic errors. A clean family history is not a protective shield—maintaining a healthy lifestyle and staying vigilant with screenings is crucial.
8. Myth: Surgery Causes Cancer to Spread
Truth: This misconception likely arose from cases where the cancer was already at an advanced stage but diagnosed during or after surgery at the cancer hospital Mysore and other locations. Modern surgical techniques, including precise tumour removal and advanced imaging, are designed to minimise any risk of spreading cancer cells. In reality, delaying necessary surgery out of fear is far more dangerous.
9. Myth: Deodorants and Plastics Cause Cancer
Truth: No reputable study has confirmed a direct link between deodorants, plastic containers, and cancer. Concerns about aluminium in antiperspirants or bisphenol A (BPA) in plastics persist, but regulatory agencies such as the World Health Organisation and Cancer Research UK have found no solid evidence of harm. If worried, opt for BPA-free products and avoid overheating plastic containers, but know that everyday use is unlikely to pose a real threat.
10. Myth: A Positive Attitude Can Cure Cancer
Truth: Optimism is invaluable for mental well-being and can improve treatment adherence, but it does not influence the biological progression of cancer. Tumours do not shrink because someone maintains a sunny disposition. Cancer treatment relies on medical science, not wishful thinking. While a positive outlook can help with quality of life and emotional resilience, it is no replacement for evidence-based treatment.
Trust Science, Choose Expert Care
Misinformation about kidney diseases and cancer can be as harmful as the conditions themselves, leading to delays in treatment and unnecessary anxiety. Understanding the facts and seeking timely medical attention can make a life-changing difference.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a kidney infection or any urinary health concerns, don’t wait—consult Dr. Srinivasan P, HOD & Senior Consultant – Nephrology at ClearMedi Radiant Hospital, Mysore. With vast experience in haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplants, he ensures patients receive the highest standard of nephrological care.
For expert cancer care, Dr. Avinash C B, HOD & Senior Consultant – Medical Oncology at ClearMedi Radiant Hospital, Mysore, offers specialized treatment for medical, paediatric, and haemato-oncology, as well as stem cell transplantation. With over 21 years of experience in leading oncology centers, including HCG, he provides cutting-edge treatment for solid tumours, haematological malignancies, and paediatric cancers.
ClearMedi Healthcare operates across multiple locations, ensuring access to top-quality medical expertise at:
- ClearMedi Radiant Hospital, Mysore
- ClearMedi Paridhi Multispeciality Hospital, Gwalior
- Primacare ClearMedi Multispeciality Hospital, Noida
Wherever you are, ClearMedi’s specialists are committed to delivering comprehensive care with a focus on early detection, personalised treatment plans, and post-treatment support.
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