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The latest scientific information regarding the most common cancer myths, misconceptions, and facts. Learn the facts to reduce your stress and make correct health decisions.

MYTH 1: Cancer is contagious.

FACT: No, cancer is not contagious. Cancer is not a virus or an infection that can be spread from person to person like the common cold or flu. However, certain cancers are caused by viruses and bacteria that can be transmitted between individuals. Certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) have been associated to cervical, anal, and certain forms of head and neck tumors.

Cancer is caused by genetic mutations that can occur spontaneously or be caused by various factors such as exposure to carcinogens, lifestyle habits, or inherited genetic mutations. It is important to seek accurate information and seek medical advice if you have concerns about cancer.

MYTH 2: Cancer is a death sentence.

FACT: No, cancer is not necessarily a death sentence. Advances in diagnosis and treatment have made it possible for many people to live long, healthy lives after a cancer diagnosis. The outcome of a cancer diagnosis depends on many factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of the treatment.

As scientists gain insight of cancer and find more effective methods, recovery rates continue to rise.

In January 2019, an estimated  cancer survivors from Reliable Sources were living in the United States. Over the past four decades, survival rates have doubled in the United Kingdom.

It is also important to note that survival rates vary greatly by cancer type. In the United Kingdom, , whereas pancreatic cancer survival rates are below 1%.

With early detection and appropriate treatment, many people are able to successfully manage their cancer and enjoy a good quality of life. It is important to seek medical advice and access evidence-based treatments if you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer.

MYTH 3: If you have a family history of cancer, you will get it too.

FACT: Having a family history of cancer can increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer, but it does not guarantee that you will get cancer. Inherited genetic mutations that increase the risk of cancer can run in families, but there are many other factors that also play a role in the development of cancer, including lifestyle habits, exposure to environmental toxins, and chance.

It is important to be aware of your family history and to discuss any concerns with your doctor, who can help you determine your level of risk and recommend steps to reduce that risk. Regular cancer screenings and lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can also help lower the risk of cancer.

MYTH 4: Cancer thrives on sugar.

FACT: Cancer cells can consume sugar for energy, but there is no scientific evidence to suggest that consuming sugar directly causes cancer to grow. Cancer cells require a constant source of energy, which they obtain from the breakdown of glucose (a type of sugar) in the bloodstream.

However, it is important to note that a diet high in sugar and processed foods can contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for several types of cancer. Maintaining a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, and limiting sugar and processed foods, is an important step in reducing the risk of cancer and promoting overall health.

MYTH 5: Cancer treatment is usually worse than the disease.

FACT: Cancer treatment can be challenging and have side effects, but for many people, it can also be lifesaving. The goal of cancer treatment is to destroy or remove the cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy cells. The type and severity of side effects depend on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the specific treatments used.

For some people, the side effects of treatment can be manageable and temporary, while others may experience more severe and long-lasting effects. However, it is important to remember that the severity of side effects also depends on the individual's overall health and response to treatment.

Overall, the benefits of cancer treatment often outweigh the risks and side effects. In many cases, cancer treatment can lead to a cure or long-term remission, and even when a cure is not possible, treatment can help control the cancer and improve the patient's quality of life. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of different treatment options with your doctor to determine the best approach for your individual needs.

MYTH 6: My attitude affects my cancer.

FACT: Your attitude and outlook can have a significant impact on your well-being and quality of life during and after cancer treatment. Studies have shown that having a positive outlook and feeling supported by friends, family, and healthcare providers can improve physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, and lead to better treatment outcomes.

However, it is also important to note that a positive attitude alone is not a cure for cancer, and that the best approach to cancer treatment involves a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and support from loved ones and healthcare providers.

It is normal to experience a range of emotions during and after cancer treatment, and it is important to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed. Talking openly with your doctor about your concerns and feelings can also help you better manage your cancer experience and improve your overall well-being.

MYTH 7: Drug firms, government, and medical professionals are hiding a cancer cure.

FACT: There is no evidence to support the claim that a cure for cancer exists and is being deliberately hidden by drug companies, the government, or the medical establishment.

Cancer is a complex and heterogeneous group of diseases, and there is no single cure for all types of cancer. Advances in cancer research have led to the development of effective treatments for many types of cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. However, despite these advances, there is still much that is not known about the underlying biology of cancer and the best approaches to treating it.

MYTH 8: Deodorants cause breast cancer.

FACT: There is currently no scientific evidence to support the claim that deodorants cause breast cancer. Breast cancer is a complex disease caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, and there is no single cause of the disease.

Studies have been conducted to assess the potential link between the use of antiperspirants and deodorants and the development of breast cancer, but the results have been inconclusive. Some studies have found a potential link between the use of antiperspirants containing certain types of chemicals, such as aluminum, and an increased risk of breast cancer, while other studies have found no evidence of a link.

The evidence currently available does not provide clear evidence of a causative link between the use of deodorants and the development of breast cancer, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of these products on human health.

It is important to be informed about the products you use and to take steps to reduce your risk of breast cancer, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting regular exercise, and seeking regular medical check-ups, but there is no need to avoid deodorants as a means of reducing your risk of breast cancer. If you have concerns about the safety of a specific product, you should talk to your doctor or a dermatologist.

MYTH 9: Artificial sweeteners cause cancer.

FACT: There is ongoing research on the potential link between artificial sweeteners and cancer, but the current evidence does not support the idea that artificial sweeteners cause cancer.

Artificial sweeteners are commonly used as a low-calorie or calorie-free alternative to sugar and are approved for use by regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), based on a large body of research showing that they are safe for consumption.

MYTH 10: Cell phones cause brain cancer.

FACT: There is ongoing research on the potential link between cell phone use and brain cancer, but the current evidence does not support the idea that cell phones cause brain cancer.

Cell phones emit low-level radiofrequency (RF) energy, a form of non-ionizing radiation, when in use. This type of radiation is different from the ionizing radiation emitted by X-rays and other medical imaging technologies, and it is generally considered to be safe for human exposure.

It is important to note that the majority of studies on this topic have been observational in nature, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of cell phone use on human health. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health organizations have conducted large-scale studies on this topic and have concluded that the available evidence does not support the idea that cell phones cause brain cancer.