As-salamu `alaikum,

  • Myth: Cancer always means a premature death, Correction: No, a diagnosis of cancer does not always mean a death sentence, particularly if the tumour is found at an early stage. Many types of cancer that were incurable 20 years ago are now completely treatable.
  • Myth: Cancer is caused by injuries such as knocks and bumps, Correction: This is definitely not true; however, there is a slight connection in that a painful knock may make the person more aware of the tender area and that leads to them feeling a lump that was already there.
  • Myth: Cancer is contagious, meaning it can be caught from someone else by touching them or giving them a hug, Correction: it is impossible to catch most cancers through everyday contact with another person do don’t be afraid to visit friends and relatives in hospital and give them a special hug of comfort
  • Myth: Cancer is hereditary in families, Correction: few types of cancer are hereditary, some rare forms of can be inherited.
  • Myth: Cancer is caused by stress, Correction: There is no evidence that links the development of cancer to any mental or emotional upset.
  • Myth: Women are more at risk of developing cancer than men, Correction: figures show that the risks are similar and the main types of cancer are the same. Men and women die fairly equally from cancers of the stomach, large intestine and pancreas. The differences is found in the cancers linked to specific, gender- related organs, such as the prostate gland in men and ovaries or womb in women.

“Caring for someone with cancer” by Toni Battison.