Common cancer myths and misconceptions

Almost everyone has been touched by cancer in some way, so it's not surprising there are also many myths and misconceptions floating around.

"Many misconceptions are the result of outdated or incorrect information about how cancer occurs, how it spreads and how it should be treated," says William Morano, MD, surgical oncologist at Main Line Health. "Many of these are long-held beliefs within families and communities. They also gain traction online and on social media, which tends to spread faster than scientific evidence. There is a great deal of information out there that is not fact- or evidence-based and could be dangerous."

Why cancer myths are dangerous and why accurate information is key

Believing myths rather than reliable, accurate information can lead to confusion and fear. It can also lead to poor choices when it comes to cancer prevention and treatment. Dr. Morano sets the record straight on some common myths about cancer.

1. Cancer is contagious

Cancer is not spread from person to person the way a cold or the flu is. You don't need to stay away from someone out of fear you will "catch" cancer from them. In fact, they may need your company and support more than ever.

Certain viruses and bacteria that can cause cancer may be contagious, but the cancer they cause is not. These include some types of human papillomavirus (HPV) and the very common Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori). And even if you get HPV or H.pylori from someone else, doesn't mean you will automatically get cancer.

2. Sugar feeds cancer

No studies have shown that eating sugar will "feed" your cancer or make it worse. And none have shown that if you stop eating sugar, your cancer will "starve," shrink or disappear. However, a diet high in added sugar may lead to obesity, which is a risk factor for many types of cancer.

Not all sugar is bad

"Naturally occurring sugars like those found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains are all needed to help maintain muscle and healthy weight during cancer treatment and have been shown to help fight cancer," explains Dr. Morano.

3. Alternative or "natural" treatments are better than traditional medicine for curing cancer

No natural or herbal products have been shown to be effective for treating cancer. Talk with your clinician about any supplements or herbal products you are considering, including vitamins, to be sure they won't interfere with your cancer treatment.

Your health care clinician has the most up-to-date information on evidence-based treatments that have been rigorously tested and proven to improve survival and quality of life. They also understand your specific cancer, its stage and how it will respond to treatment, as well as your personal needs and preferences.

Complementary therapies can be supportive

Complementary and integrative or holistic therapies like acupuncture, massage therapy and qigong may help you manage symptoms and side effects, but they should not replace traditional cancer treatment.

4. Cancer biopsies or surgery will spread the cancer inside my body

Cutting into your body to perform surgery does not spread cancer. Cancer spreads when cells multiply and grow, first in the primary location and then into other areas. The possibility that a biopsy or surgery will actually cause cancer to spread to other parts of the body is extremely low.

"The goal of surgery is to work around the cancer and take it out intact so the cancer can't spread (metastasize)," says Dr. Morano. "Surgeons use special methods and take many steps to prevent cancer cells from spreading during biopsies or surgery to remove tumors."

5. Cancer only affects older people

While the odds of getting cancer increase as you age, cancer can be diagnosed at any age. In fact, more and more cancers are being diagnosed in people under age 50, including:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) and colorectal cancers
• Breast cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Kidney cancer

And testicular cancer primarily affects men ages 15 to 35. Even if you are younger, it's important to know your family history and pay attention to your body for any unusual symptoms.

6. Cancer is a death sentence

In the United States, the likelihood of dying from cancer has dropped steadily since the 1990s thanks to today's evidence-based treatments.

"Our knowledge and understanding of how cancer develops is continually fueling new ways to prevent, detect and treat it," explains Dr. Morano. "Equally important, our understanding of how to effectively manage side effects is constantly evolving. We know that how you live is just as important as if you live."

7. If someone in my family has cancer, I will get it too

Your family history can increase risk, but many other factors influence cancer development. Fewer than 10% of cancers are caused by genes passed down from a person's parents. The rest are caused by factors that occur during your lifetime. These include:

• Diet
• Physical activity or exercise
• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol
• Environmental factors

Regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices can help minimize your risk. Consider speaking with a genetic counselor if you are concerned about your family history.

8. I'll survive cancer if I have a positive attitude

"As much as I wish this was true, there is no scientific evidence that links a person's attitude or thinking — positive or negative — to their cancer outcome," says Dr. Morano.

Having a positive attitude can affect how you go through treatment, though. It can help you push through during tough times and may help you cope with your cancer by maintaining social connections and staying active.

9. Clinical trials are only a last resort

Many people believe clinical trials are only for people with a terminal illness, but that's far from the case. Research trials or studies are essential for developing treatments at various stages of illness.

By participating in a clinical trial, you may have access to innovative cancer treatments not yet available to the general public. Your doctor will help you understand your options, potential risks and benefits and help you decide if it's right for you.

10. Superfoods can cure cancer

"Another food-related cancer myth is that changing or improving your diet can cure your cancer," explains Dr. Morano. "While it would be nice to think we could treat you with cranberries, quinoa and kale, no single 'superfood' can cure or prevent cancer."

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins may lower your cancer risk. And during treatment, it can help you regain strength and boost your energy, but what you eat cannot replace medical treatment for cancer. Proper cancer treatment is always built on evidence-based treatments and a partnership with your health care team.

Not sure what to believe?

If you're unsure what to believe, your best bet is to talk to a health care professional about your concerns.

"We are trained to consider your specific situation and offer personalized recommendations for prevention, screenings and treatments," says Dr. Morano.

Cancer treatment is a partnership between you and your clinician, with shared decision-making that only you can agree to.

 

Next steps

Learn more about William Morano, MD

Learn more about cancer care at Main Line Health

Learn more about the Genetics and Risk Assessment Program

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