Having worked with patients for more than 25 years, I’ve witnessed the courage, determination, and unbreakable spirit of those facing a cancer diagnosis. But I’ve also seen the questions, uncertainties, and misinformation they and their families face throughout the cancer journey.
Cancer is one of the most challenging health issues of our time, affecting the lives of millions of people worldwide. More than 20 million new cases of cancer are diagnosed annually, and that is expected to grow to nearly 30 million by 2040, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Despite the anticipated increase in new diagnoses, significant progress is being made to improve cancer care and outcomes. Research and technological advances have, and will continue to, deepen our understanding of this complex disease. Yet in my practice, I see that many myths still persist, adversely impacting prevention efforts, treatment, and patient care.
It’s time to debunk these myths and provide factual, up-to-date information to help patients and their caregivers better navigate their cancer journeys.
Myth #1: Cancer is a single disease with a one-size-fits-all treatment
Cancer is a group of related diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth, requiring tailored treatment and approaches for each patient. Cancer types differ at the molecular level, with tremendous genetic variability—even among patients who have the same type of cancer.
For the greatest effectiveness, treatments should be personalized. A study on pancreatic cancer cases, for example, showed that in 94 percent of cases reviewed, subspecialists made specific recommendations that would have improved outcomes, highlighting the benefit of personalized care and treatment plans for patients.
Myth #2: Cancer is always hereditary
While many cancers have a genetic component, most are not hereditary. Environmental factors and lifestyle choices also play an important role in cancer development. According to an American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) report, “In the United States, 40 percent of all cancers are associated with modifiable risk factors, which necessitates a robust emphasis on and support for public health-focused research.” In the U.S., obesity is now outpacing smoking as a leading modifiable cause of cancer.
This suggests that many cancers may be prevented through lifestyle changes and environmental interventions. The report noted that nearly 20 percent of U.S. cancer diagnoses are related to excess body weight, unhealthy diets, alcohol intake, and physical inactivity; and another 19 percent of all cancer cases can be traced back to tobacco use.
Myth #3: There’s nothing you can do to prevent cancer
While some risk factors are beyond our control, the data above shows how lifestyle choices can reduce cancer risk, and why taking steps to prevent cancer is key.
Other studies show how our daily habits can affect cancer risk. For example, a recent review of cancer trends noted that, together with the risk factors mentioned, exposure to the sun and infectious agents—through air pollution or industrial chemicals—can also increase the incidence of certain cancers. While some environmental exposures may be sometimes unavoidable, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen when outside, and avoiding artificial UV light exposure—such as tanning beds—can help minimize risk.
Vaccines are another means of prevention. We know that certain infectious agents, such as the hepatitis B virus and human papillomavirus (HPV), can cause cancer. Vaccination against HPV can nearly eliminate the risk of cervical cancer, vulvar cancers, and penile or anus cancers caused by HPV.
Myth #4: Cancer is always painful
Pain is not always a sign of cancer, especially in the early stages. This is important to understand, as relying on pain as a symptom of cancer can mean delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Fortunately, recent advances utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) have made it easier to detect cancer at earlier stages. For example, innovative AI-powered solutions designed to enhance the accuracy of polyp detection during colonoscopies can help identify colorectal cancer sooner. And recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved technologies that enable individuals to self-collect specimens for cervical cancer screening in some settings, which may facilitate personal comfort and improve adherence to screening recommendations.
Myth #5: Alternative therapies can cure cancer without standard medical treatment
While complementary therapies can have a role in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life, they should not replace evidence-based medicine.
Cancer research is growing, accompanied by rapid advancements in cancer treatment. The AACR report noted that among the major advances made across the clinical cancer care continuum from July 2023 through June 2024, 15 new anticancer therapeutics were approved for use by the FDA. During this period, the FDA also approved new uses for 15 previously approved anticancer therapeutics.
Evidence-based cancer treatments are advancing immeasurably, offering real hope for cancer patients. For example, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are showing great promise in addressing various cancer types, including breast and ovarian cancer.
While cancer remains one of the most formidable health challenges a person may face, ongoing research and innovations are paving the way for improved early detection and effective treatments. By dispelling these persistent myths and providing accurate, up-to-date information, we can empower patients and their caregivers to make informed decisions.
Personalized treatments, lifestyle changes, and advancements in medical technology are key to improving outcomes and offering hope. Continued research and education are essential in the fight against cancer, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and support throughout their journey.
Joseph Alvarnas is a hematology-oncology physician.
