When hearing the word cancer, the most common sensations experienced are fear and uncertainty. Fear, because for the brain the word cancer i...
However, not only is their ignorance about this disease, but it often appears surrounded by myths. If knowledge is what makes us strong, then it is important to clear up some of these myths:
Myths:
1. If no one in my family has had cancer, I have nothing to worry about.
The National Cancer Institute in the United States (NCI) reveals that only 5 to 10 percent of cancer is caused by genetic factors. This tells us that, regardless of whether or not we have a close relative who has suffered from this disease, we must take all necessary preventive measures.
2. I don't want to have a Pap test because people who do it always start to have problems with cancer.
I have heard this excuse from different women who have the belief that if they get tested, doctors will start telling them they have cancer and that, on the contrary, if they don't, they will never face that problem. They assure that it is something that they have witnessed. However, I believe that if people wait until they have any symptoms to undergo that test, it is more likely that they may have an irregular result. The best thing then is to perform the test according to the schedule indicated by the doctor and not wait for symptoms, which can make the fight against the disease more difficult.
3. If I use enough of the best sunscreen I can put any worries aside.
Using sunscreen is an excellent idea to protect us from skin cancer. But it is a mistake to think that by using the product we no longer have to worry about the time we spend in the sun. As its name indicates, it is protection; the most important is to avoid being exposed to the sun's rays unnecessarily and carelessly.
4. There is nothing you can do to avoid getting cancer
No one can have life assured; however, a healthy lifestyle can help us prevent cancer. Regular exercise, avoiding smoking or being around people who do; getting regular tests, having a stable intimate life, avoiding fried foods, that is, eating a healthy diet, are some ways in which we can take care of ourselves not only from this disease but from many others.
5. If I have stomach problems, I take the medicines that are advertised in the media and I will no longer have problems
There are different stomach problems such as frequent stomach pains, intolerances, gastritis, colitis, or reflux, which, according to advertising, can be cured with a single magic medicine. However, these problems can be symptoms of other diseases, so only a doctor can indicate the appropriate treatment in each case. Diseases such as these, which can become chronic, should be monitored by a doctor, as there is a risk of colon, stomach, or other cancers. It is repetitive but necessary, to say that prevention is what can help us.
6. If I have been vaccinated against papilloma, I no longer have to have check-ups
According to the NCI, the papillomavirus vaccine is very effective in preventing some types of papillomavirus, but not all, so medical checkups should continue.
7. Cancer is always synonymous with death
This is one of the best myths to debunk: early detection and new scientific discoveries have meant that cancer can be defeated in some cases. It is a hard fight for both the patient and his family, but more and more people manage to get ahead with early detection of the disease, proper treatment, and an attitude of faith and optimism.
Cancer is a terrible disease, so it is necessary to put an end to the myths that surround it and to be able to fight against it with knowledge. Timely detection and prevention are our best weapons.
COMMENTS