Cancer Myths Vs Facts: There are many diseases which are passed on from generation to generation in a family because they are genetic. Like, it is said about diabetes that this disease affects many members of a family because it is genetic. Similarly, it is said about cancer that if a family member has cancer, then there is a high chance that other members can also become its victims. Due to this, a kind of fear sets in among people and many patients lose the courage to fight it even before treatment. Let us talk about this myth today and believe what the truth is.
Myth: Is a disease like cancer really genetic?
Facts: There is a myth about cancer that it is related to family history. That is, if someone in your family has had cancer, then there is a high probability that other members of the family will also have it. If we look at it, no research has been able to make such a claim that if someone in the family has had cancer, then other members will definitely have cancer.
Experts say that only 10% of all cancer cases are such in which one member of the family has cancer after the other. Cancer can be in family history but the chances of this are very low. If one member of a family has cancer after the other, then the reason for this may not be genetic but the lifestyle and environment of the family members may be similar.
For example, members of a family may have lived in an area with more sunlight. Members of a family smoke more. Therefore, instead of considering cancer to be genetic, the lifestyle of the family can be considered genetic, which increases the risk of cancer.
Myth: Are lumps in the body cancer?
Fact: Another myth about cancer scares people. It is said that if a lump is seen anywhere in the body, it will definitely be cancer. There is no truth in this. Actually, not every lump in the body is cancer. Many times a lump on the breast scares women. Experts say that about 10-20 percent of the lumps on the body can be cancer. In such a situation, instead of getting scared, one should get it checked. Along with getting tested, a person should also focus on age, physical condition, hormonal changes.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.
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