10-03-2023
Debunking Myths Around Cancer

The unchecked growth and spread of abnormal cells is one of the diseases that make up the cancer group. It can affect almost any part of the body and can have a range of symptoms, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. It can be caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, exposure to certain substances, and lifestyle factors. Increased chances of successful recovery can result from early detection and treatment.

Misconceptions about cancer causes can lead to unnecessary worry about your health.These myths frequently result in patients feeling much more stressed than they previously were.Understanding the diagnosis is an essential part of moving forward with the treatment plan.

Myth: Cancer is a death sentence.

Fact: Many cancers can now be treated effectively and the prognosis for people with cancer has improved dramatically over recent decades.

Myth: Cancer is caused by one thing, such as diet, stress, smoking or genetics.

Fact: Cancer is a complex disease caused by genetics, lifestyle, aging, environment, and underlying health conditions.

Myth: Cancer is always painful.

Fact: Pain is not always an early symptom of cancer. Usually, pain doesn’t occur in early stage. However, patient may experience pain with the cancer spread to other organs with advancing stage.

Myth: Cancer always causes weight loss.

Fact: Weight loss occur in the later stage and is not always an early symptom of cancer.

Myth: Alternative medicine is always better for treating cancer than conventional medicine.

Fact: While some alternative therapies may complement conventional treatments, there is limited scientific evidence to support their efficacy in treating cancer. It's important to consult with a doctor and have a treatment plan that is based on scientific evidence.

Myth: There is no way to stop cancer from occurring.

Fact: There are many steps you can take to reduce your risk of cancer, such as maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, not smoking, and getting screened for cancers.

Myth: Cancer is always hereditary.

Fact: Up to 10% of all cancers may be caused by inherited genetic changes. Inheriting a cancer-related genetic change doesn’t mean you will definitely get cancer. It means that your risk of getting cancer is increased. It is recommended for such people to get regular check-up. While some cancers have a hereditary component, most are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Myth: Cancer treatments always cause hair loss.

Fact: Hair loss is a common side effect of certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, but not all treatments cause hair loss, and there are ways to manage it.

Myth: Cell phones cause cancer

Fact: Although many studies have examined the potential health effects of non-ionizing radiation from radar, microwave ovens, cell phones, and other sources, there is currently no consistent evidence that non-ionizing radiation increases cancer risk in humans.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information and a personalized plan for cancer treatment and prevention.

Doctor
Dr. Malay Nandy
Director
Department of Medical Oncology
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