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Cancer: Myths and misconceptions that need to should be aware of
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Cancer: Myths and misconceptions that need to should be aware of


Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. A progressive disease marked by the abnormal growth of cells, cancer can be of many different types, affecting people of any age group or gender. The name in itself gives rise to a sense of fear, especially because the treatment gets complicated as the condition progresses. Experts from the best cancer hospital in Gurgaon suggest that the exact cause of cancer is very hard to determine however it is believed to be a result of certain genetic mutations in the DNA of the cells, due to which their abnormal growth and multiplication are triggered. These abnormal cells live longer than the healthy ones and as such tend to accumulate, resulting in the formation of a tumour. In some cases, the cancer cells may break free from the tumour and enter the bloodstream where they can easily travel to different areas of the body. This process is medically termed metastasis and it is quite likely to happen in the latest stage of cancer.


Although cancer is very common, there are several myths and misconceptions associated with it. The best oncologists in Gurgaon suggest that some of these even prevent the patient from seeking timely care. We have busted some such myths in this blog.

 

Myth 1 - If one has been detected with cancer there is no way of saving them -

There are many people out there who believe that cancer has no cure and if one has been detected with the same, their condition is only going to get worse. Fortunately, this is not true. There have been tremendous advancements in the field of cancer treatment, with the advent of several new modalities that have made it possible to treat or manage cancer more effectively. Early diagnosis and treatment may even make it possible to cure the patient completely.

 

Myth 2 - Can be transmitted from one person to another -

This is completely false as cancer is not an infectious disease and rather a result of DNA abnormalities. You cannot transmit these abnormalities to someone who comes in contact with you. No doubt cancer can spread from one organ of the body to different organs via metastasis, but you do not have to worry about acquiring it by getting in touch with someone suffering from cancer.

 

Myth 3 - Radiation therapy is life-threatening-

Radiation therapy is one of the best-known treatments for cancer. It involves the use of high-intensity radiation beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It can either be given before surgery to reduce the size of the tumour that is to be removed or after the surgery, to kill any cancer cells that have been left behind. Radiation therapy is widely recommended by experts across the globe. Just like any other medical procedure, it does have certain side effects, however, the best surgeons in Gurgaon suggest that the benefits of the procedure outweigh these. Also, it is important to understand that radiation therapy is not life-threatening.

 

Myth 4 - If you do not have a family history of cancer there is no way that you can have it -

Not having a family history of cancer does not me that you do not have to worry about the same. Family history is one of the major risk factors but it is not a mandatory factor. A person may develop cancer, irrespective of whether anyone in his family had it or not. Also, there are several factors that may increase the rest of Cancer which include exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, use of tobacco products, environmental pollution, smoking and obesity.

 

Myth 5 - If you see a lump on your body it means that you have cancer

A lump or a tumour is usually the result of the accumulation of cancer cells, but not every lamp that you are is necessarily a sign of cancer. Sometimes the growth can also be non-malignant or benign. There are certain Diagnostic modalities that can be used in order to determine whether the lump is cancerous or not. The most accurate of these is a biopsy, in which a small sample of tissue is collected from the lump, and thoroughly assessed to look out for the science of cancer.

 

If you wish to know more about cancer or seek treatment for the same, you can consult the best oncologist in Gurgaon for all the assistance and guidance you need.

Dr. Sunny Garg, Head of Department and Senior Consultant

Medical Oncology

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