Posted on 03/29/2025 3:01:08 AM PDT by Jyotishi
Opinion
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with millions of new cases reported each year. In 2022 alone, approximately 20 million new cancer cases were diagnosed globally, and 9.7 million lives were lost to the disease. In India, the numbers are equally alarming, with around 100 out of every one lakh people diagnosed with cancer. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), more than 14 lakh cancer cases were estimated in 2023. [1 lakh = 0.1 million]
Despite advancements in early detection and treatment, many myths surrounding cancer testing prevent people from undergoing timely screening. These misconceptions can delay diagnosis, leading to more complicated treatment procedures and poorer outcomes.
Common myths about cancer testing
A. Cancer screening is necessary only if there are symptoms present: Most people believe they should be tested for cancer only if they have some symptoms. Many cancers, including breast cancer, cervical cancer, and colorectal cancer, go undetected in very early stages. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, pap smears, and colonoscopies, usually identify problems before the cancer becomes major, thus greatly increasing survival chances.
B. A biopsy can cause the spread of cancer: One of the longest-living myths states that biopsies can cause the spread of cancer. This myth keeps patients away from opting for critical diagnostic treatment. Doctors follow strict guidelines to ensure that the biopsy is done in such a way that the spread of any cancer cells is avoided. Scientifically, it has been acknowledged that biopsy procedures are safe and integral to establishing a correct diagnosis.
C. Cancer tests are inaccurate and yield false positives: specific tests may not be considered accurate, but contemporary cancer screenings are reliable enough to be considered correct. Rule-out tests often deal with false-positive results to confirm the diagnosis. These tests have their maximum chance of success when done at early detection, which outweighs their minimum chances of being wrong.
D. If no one in my family has cancer, I don’t need screening: Family history can elevate the risk for some cancers, but most cancers occur in people without genetic predisposition. Cigarette smoking, poor dietary habits, and lack of exercise strongly influence the development of most cancers. In other words, everybody should be screened.
Diagnosis and treatment
Advancements in medical science have made early cancer detection more accurate and treatment more effective. Screening very early lets doctors recommend less invasive procedures and better survival rates. Treatment options depend on the type of cancer and the stage at which it is diagnosed. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy are widely used treatments available.
Timely diagnosis can change treatment outcomes from positive to negative. Currently, cancer care is personalised. The treatment plan is derived from a combination of genetic markers, tumour types, and individual patient needs. The right medical interventions can control many cancers, providing better quality of life and survival rates. Moreover, exposing myths surrounding cancer tests goes a long way to boosting early detection. Awareness, education, health screenings, and medical intervention empower people to take charge of the health course.
Raising awareness about cancer screening and dispelling myths is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Many cancers can be managed successfully if diagnosed in time, significantly improving survival rates. Regular screenings, informed medical decisions, and lifestyle modifications play a key role in cancer prevention and management. By prioritising education and proactive health measures, individuals can take control of their well -- being. Early diagnosis saves lives, making it imperative to spread accurate information and encourage timely screenings.
(The writer is senior consultant and HOD, Histopathology -- Oncquest Laboratories. Views expressed are personal)
Thanks for posting. I am in treatment right now for cancer on the brain and lung. I have another treatment on the brain next week and then the lung the following week. This will be a tough road for me but I am determined to get through it. I appreciate the information you posted. Thank you.
pttt
So 10,000 per cent of them get cancer? How does that work?
1. Cancer is many diseases and they are all somewhat different. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment.
2. While many stories you read about cancer are hogwash, this one is on target! While screening can be important, an even more important technique not mentioned for early detection is an annual physical exam with your family doctor, which may reveal undiagnosed disease for early detection.
3. If you are diagnosed with the disease, no matter how trivial, take yourself to a top cancer teaching hospital for a second opinion. While the overall first diagnosis may be correct from your local onc, there is no comparison to the depth of diagnostic capabilities, onsite research and specialized clinicians that may save your life at these centers. The top two in the country are MD Anderson and Memorial Sloan Kettering. I would not go below one of the top 10 for my second opinion. I hate to tell you of the people to whom I make this suggestion, tell me they have a great doctor and trust that doctor, and then months later, they are dead when a second opinion might have saved their life. It sure did for me!
Finally, hearing the words "it's cancer" is quite a blow. We all react differently, but remember, it is not a death sentence. Many of us survive and prosper.
lakh people
Lakh lives matter.
Lahk is the common Indian term for 100,000.
100 cases out of Lahk (100,000) is one out of 1000... or 0.1%
I lakh the way you think.
Prayers this morning for you. Man’s “ science” gives some hope, but the ultimate is Prayer.
I don’t know where you stand in Praise and Worship, but I know many that were Healed following the instructions given in Scripture. Approach your Pastor and Elders in your church, have them lay hands and Pray for Healing, in the name of Jesus.
Saw my primary this month and he said many similar things. Basically, it’s not just genetics and while we feel confident about some things that cause cancers it’s really a possibility for anyone regardless of age, lifestyle, or genetics.
My father is finishing treatments for late stage skin cancer. It’s taking a toll on him. Asked my doctor, he did a quick look over my back and said all was normal and to remember that my dad spent his youth on the beach covered in baby oil.
But he then gave the reminder that early screening is still important for the same reasons the article states.
I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Kidney Cancer but nobody caught it until December this year. They found a 9cm tumor on my right kidney, now I’m scheduled for a Radical Nephrectomy early next month. To all check your eGFR blood numbers it doesn’t matter your age but as you get older your kidneys get weaker.
I call BS. No mention of Ivermectin or nutritional elements that attack cancers.
I do believe in the power of prayer. I have a close family member who is putting prayer requests into the church for me. I will reach out to her more and more as my treatment progresses.
God bless you 🙏💘
Thanks for posting the URL to the informative article.
“I am in treatment right now for cancer . . .”
You are brave. Prayers for your quick recovery!
“I’m scheduled for a Radical Nephrectomy . . .”
Thanks for posting your advice. Prayers for a quick recovery!
Prayers for the success of your treatment and good health!
Thanks for posting that.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.