World cancer Day, observed on february 4, provides a worldwide forum for raising awareness of cancer and promoting early identification and prevention. Dispelling false information and distinguishing reality from fiction is crucial since millions of people are impacted globally. Oncologists discuss common misconceptions and falsehoods on this World cancer Day.
 

Do turmeric, neem and lemon help cure cancer?
Fact:
Dr. amit Upadhyay, a consultant medical oncologist at PSRI Hospital, explains that although natural compounds can have health advantages, "there is no empirical proof... They are not a replacement for medical treatment, but they could aid in managing the adverse effects of chemotherapy.
 

Does cancer cause hair loss?
Fact:
According to Dr. Punit Gupta, chairman of Oncology services at the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, "hair loss is rarely caused by cancer itself." One of the negative effects of several chemotherapy medications is hair loss. Hair loss is typically not a side effect of other therapies including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or hormone therapy.
 

Do microplastics increase cancer risk?
Fact:
There may be a connection between microplastics and some types of cancer, according to research. The accumulation of microplastics in the body can result in tissue damage, inflammation, and potentially even changes to DNA, according to Dr. Arun Kumar Giri, director of Surgical Oncology at Aakash Healthcare. Although there is currently little concrete proof, these particles may have a role in the development of lung, stomach, breast, and pancreatic cancers.
 

Can a positive attitude help cure cancer?
Fact:
Though essential, an optimistic outlook is not a panacea. "A positive outlook can even improve recovery time, reduce stress, and help patients cope with treatment," Dr. Giri says. Nonetheless, medical intervention is still necessary to eradicate cancer.
 

Does pollution cause cancer?
Fact:
According to Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, director of oncology at CK Birla Hospital, pollution might raise the chance of developing cancer. cancer can result from tiny air pollution particles that impair the immune system and enter the circulation. lung and skin cancer can also result from drinking water tainted with arsenic, lead, or pesticides.
 

Myth: cancer spreads quickly after diagnosis
Fact:
Many people are concerned that after a biopsy or diagnosis, cancer may spread quickly. According to Dr. Upadhyay, "Cancer has its own progression timeline." Before symptoms show up, it frequently persists for a long period. A diagnosis does not cause malignant cells to spread; it just alerts us to their existence.
 

Myth: a healthy lifestyle makes you immune to cancer
Fact:
Although it may not offer total immunity, leading a healthy lifestyle helps reduce the risk of cancer. According to Dr. Giri, environmental exposures and genetic factors both have a role in the development of cancer. "However, an unhealthy lifestyle greatly raises the risk."
 



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