The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that in 2020, cancer was responsible for 10 million deaths worldwide, making it a leading cause of death globally. In the United States alone, it is estimated that 39.5% of individuals will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. Due to its prevalence, numerous misunderstandings and misconceptions have arisen around cancer. This article aims to debunk some of these myths and provide clarity on this complex collection of diseases.
Firstly, a cancer diagnosis does not equate to a death sentence. While the statistics can be daunting, it’s important to remember that not all cancers are terminal. Continuous advancements in scientific understanding and treatments have contributed to steadily growing recovery rates. For instance, as of January 2019, it was estimated that the United States was home to roughly 16.9 million cancer survivors. Over the past four decades, survival rates have doubled in the United Kingdom. Survival rates, however, can fluctuate significantly depending on the type of cancer. Testicular cancer, for example, has a survival rate of 98% in the U.K., while pancreatic cancer’s survival rate is a mere 1%.
In the U.S., the probability of dying from cancer has consistently decreased since the 1990s. Nowadays, the 5-year survival rates for cancers such as breast, prostate, and thyroid, are 90% or higher. The combined 5-year survival rate for all cancers is currently around 67%. As per the annual report on the state of cancer in the U.S. published in Cancer in 2020, average annual cancer death rates decreased by 1.5% from 2001 through 2017.
Contrary to some misconceptions, cancer is not contagious. It cannot be passed from one person to another. Interestingly, certain animals like Tasmanian devils and dogs can contract fatal transmissible cancers, but no such phenomenon has been documented in humans.
Additionally, no evidence supports the claim that cell phones cause cancer. This myth likely originated due to the fact that these devices emit radiofrequency radiation, a form of non-ionizing radiation, which is absorbed by the body. While exposure to ionizing radiation (e.g., X-rays) can increase cancer risk, non-ionizing radiation has not been proven to have the same effect.
Similarly, power lines, which produce extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields (also non-ionizing), are not proven to cause cancer. Some studies have reported a slight increase in leukemia risk among children living close to power lines, but the reasons remain unclear.
Dr. Joel Newman, a consultant hematologist at East Sussex Healthcare Trust in the U.K., highlights that daily activities such as smoking and alcohol consumption pose a much greater risk than cell phones or power lines.
Another myth is that artificial sweeteners increase cancer risk. While early studies showed that cyclamate combined with saccharin caused bladder cancer in lab animals, further research has not found a clear association in humans. Studies involving over half a million participants found no links between aspartame consumption and lymphoma, leukemia, or brain cancer.
While no evidence supports the claim that herbal medicines can cure or treat cancer, some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, meditation, and yoga, may help alleviate the psychological stress associated with cancer and the side effects of its treatment. It’s critical, however, for individuals with cancer to consult with their doctors before taking any supplements or vitamins.
Only a small fraction of cancers (3–10%) are inherited from parents. Most cases are due to accumulated gene mutations over time. The fact that people are living longer, and hence more likely to develop cancer, may explain why the myth of cancer being hereditary persists.
Dr. Collin Vu, a medical oncologist at MemorialCare Cancer Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, emphasizes that the notion of cancer always returning is a myth. The therapies available today are constantly improving, and the ability to completely eradicate cancer is becoming more attainable. However, the potential for a cure varies considerably among different types of cancer and their typical recurrence time frames.
Dr. Vu is optimistic about the future of cancer treatment. He asserts that as scientific progress continues to yield better treatments, the statement “cancer always comes back” may become increasingly less applicable. Some cancers, like testicular and thyroid, already have a 60% cure rate. Breast, prostate, and bladder cancers also have cure rates of around 50%.
Dr. Anton Bilchik, a surgical oncologist at Saint John’s Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, also emphasizes the importance of hope. He highlights that modern immunotherapy and surgical techniques have led to significant advancements in treatment, even for advanced-stage cancers. For example, up to 40% of stage 4 melanoma patients can be cured with modern immunotherapy, and 50% of patients with stage 4 colon cancer metastatic to the liver can be cured with a combination of chemotherapy and surgery.
In summary, while the fight against cancer continues, it’s clear that scientific advancements are making significant strides in the battle. The key is to remain hopeful, stay informed, and debunk the myths that surround this complex disease.