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Myths surrounding how cancer develops—and its course as a disease—still exist, even
among the educated. Its occurrence inspired fear and perhaps even shame. Some of
those attitudes linger even today, though treatments are more effective than ever
and some cancers are managed as chronic conditions rather than a terminal disease.
Several physicians and scientists at Moffitt Cancer Center addressed some of the
biggest myths surrounding cancer. Here's what they said:
People often fear the worst when they hear the word "cancer," and understandably
so. But having cancer doesn't mean, "It's all over" anymore. There are many new
treatments— and reasons for hope.
In some cases, the cancer would have progressed with or without surgery, not because
of exposure to the air.
Because young people believe they are invincible, they often neglect to get regular
checkups or see their doctor when they have unusual symptoms.
Actually, there are at least 114 different kinds of cancer, and each has its own
distinct characteristics. In fact, every cancer will respond differently to treatment.
In truth, the risk is equal—half our genes come from mom, and half come from dad.
Although most skin cancers do develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin, melanoma
can occur on unexposed areas.
Having regular exams and changing unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, a poor
diet, and a sedentary lifestyle could reduce cancer deaths by almost one third by
2015, according to the American Cancer Society.
Article courtesy of H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center &
Research Institute. For more information on cancer prevention, research and screening,
visit
www.moffitt.org or call 1-888-MOFFITT.
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