‘Only women get breast cancer’ and other common myths debunked

To most people, cancer remains one of the most terrifying diagnoses in modern medicine.

However, most of this fear emanates from the various myths that have been circulated for years, regardless of the vast information regarding the disease.

Indeed, many of the mysteries surrounding cancer have been resolved, and a great breakthrough in curing cancer patients and helping them live a fulfilling life has been realised.

Despite the success in cancer diagnoses and treatment, the majority, including well-informed and educated individuals, continue to believe in myths surrounding cancer.

In this respect, it becomes important to separate fact from fiction.

It is unfortunate that most cancer myths not only enhance false ideologies and fears, but also influence how people think and behave when dealing with cancer in themselves or in a relative.

It is critical for caregivers within the family or in the community to have accurate knowledge regarding cancer.

For most families and communities in Kenya, health messengers or caregivers of cancer patients, or any other patient, are primarily the women running the household.

It is paramount for this health messenger to be aware of the common myths about cancer to ensure that misinformation does not hinder them from seeking advice from a medical expert.

Let us look at some of the most common myths and misconceptions.

MYTHS ON DEVELOPING CANCER

Cancer is contagious
This is not true; one cannot get cancer from someone who has it.

Cancer is caused by various factors, but contracting it from someone is not one of them.

Cell phones cause cancer

Many people believe that cell phones cause cancer.

This idea is so rampant that even the most learned people support their argument with the idea that “Cell phones emit radiation that can cause cancer.”

On the contrary, cell phones are designed with this precaution and the radiation they emit cannot cause cancer.

If my mum or dad had cancer, I will also have it

Whereas some cancers have a genetic component, it does not necessarily mean that one will get cancer if their parents or any other relative had it.

Some of the cancers that can be passed genetically are breast and ovarian cancers.

If one inherits the cancer-causing gene, their risk of developing this type of cancer is higher than the general population.

However, their environment (habits, lifestyle, nutrition) still plays the biggest role.

It is better not to know that you are sick

Many people think that not knowing that you have cancer is safer than knowing that you have it.

This is not only false, but can be dangerous.

Cancer is like any other disease; if you ignore it, it affects you greatly and treating it can be difficult.

Therefore, if you notice any symptoms of cancer such as lumps in your breast, or an abnormal looking mole on your skin, seek medical advice.

Although being diagnosed with cancer is frightening, it is better to know early.

This is very important because treating it is easier when started early.

Cancer causes hair loss

This is another common myth .

Cancer in itself does not cause hair loss, rather, hair loss is as a result of cancer treatments including chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Besides, not everyone undergoing these treatments loses their hair.

It is a side-effect and depends on individuals and other factors.

Breast cancer affects women only

This is one of the biggest myths about cancer.

I bet you are one of the people who believe this.

The fact is, breast cancer affects both men and women.

However, it is rare in men.

If no one in my family has cancer, I need not worry about cancer

One does not have to have a family history with cancer to get cancer.

The truth is, only a small percentage of people get cancer as a result of hereditary factors.

Most cancers occur from changes in the body’s genetics that occur throughout one’s life as a consequence of external/environmental factors.

There are known risk factors for cancers that are linked to the majority of cancer patients including exposure to radiation, smoking, taking alcohol and obesity, among others.

Thus it is important for every individual to keep check of their lifestyle to avoid the risk of getting cancer.

Applying deodorants and anti-perspirants can cause cancer

This remains a myth since there is no evidence to prove this claim.

The National Cancer Society states categorically that even recent studies have provided conclusive proof that using these cosmetics can cause cancer.

Hair dye can cause brain cancer

This rumour has also instilled fear among beauty lovers.

The good news is, there is no evidence that there is a correlation between brain cancer and hair dye.

Once I get cancer I am bound to die

This is a very popular misconception amongst a large portion of the population.

Maybe it originated at a time when information on cancer was scarce, treatment was not well established and the cost was prohibitive and accessible only to those who could afford to seek treatment abroad.

However, with today’s medical advancement and investment by the government and other non-governmental health care facilities in cancer treatment equipment, this has changed.

The truth is, cancer is treatable and one can live a long life if they seek medical attention.

Positive thinking can cure cancer

While maintaining positive thinking towards cancer during treatment is necessary, it cannot cure cancer by itself.

Being positive helps during treatment since it enhances the quality of life.

Cancer pain is unmanageable

Despite pain being one of the most evident side-effects of cancer and cancer treatment, most of cancer pain can be managed through medications and other techniques of managing pain, including medicinal marijuana.

To be able to manage pain, one must share their experience with a medical provider.

Sugar aggravates cancer

Many people with cancer are afraid of taking sugar because they fear that sugar aggravates cancer.

However, there is no medical proof for this.

It’s good to know that all body cells, whether healthy or cancerous, require glucose (sugar) to grow and function.

Providing cancerous cells with sugar does not increase their growth any more than reducing sugar intake reduces it.

Nevertheless, one should limit their intake of sugar as too much sugar can cause obesity, weight gain and diabetes, all of which are linked to increased risk of cancer.

The elderly cannot be treated for cancer

Cancer treatment has no age limit.

Anyone diagnosed with cancer can undergo treatment and overcome it, depending on the type of cancer they are suffering from, their health condition, and the stage the cancer has reached, among other factors.

Many old patients respond to cancer treatment just as well as do younger ones.

For instance, the former Minister for Medical Services, Prof Anyang Nyong’o was successfully treated for prostate cancer at the age of 66 while Rose Nasimiyu successfully responded to Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of nine.

Cancer treatment is worse than the disease

This is a myth that has made many people even shy away from seeking medical attention when they suspect they have cancer.

However, despite some forms of cancer treatment having severe side-effects, advancements in treatment modalities are producing better tolerated regimens.

Managing side-effects (palliative care) is an important part of cancer treatment.

Everyone can be treated for cancer

Not everyone can be treated for cancer after diagnosis.

When a doctor establishes that treatment might bring about discomfort rather than relief, he might recommend watchful waiting, where the cancer is monitored until it grows and shows symptoms.

Treatment can then begin.

Further, advanced cancer may not be treatable based on social, emotional or spiritual factors.

There are times when the cancer is too advanced, and treatment would cause side-effects, yet with no hope of a positive outcome.

There is cure for cancer but pharmaceutical companies are holding it to make money

This is just politics. If it were true, why would the rich still be dying of cancer when they can pay researchers in pharmaceutical companies any amount of money?

In fact, even some people in the pharmaceutical industry have died of cancer.

The fact is that cancer is treatable, especially if diagnosed in its early stages.

Whereas cancer is a disease like any other, it is very traumatising because treating it can take a toll on family’s physical, emotional and social and financial resources.

One can, however, try to minimise the risks of developing cancer.

If one is diagnosed with it, starting treatment early can restore their health and help them realise a fulfilling life.

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