Monday 4 February, 2013 marks World Cancer Day and the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) will focus on dispelling myths and misconceptions about cancer by sharing a list of common myths with the correct facts.
World Cancer Day is the singular initiative under which the entire world can unite together in the fight against the global cancer epidemic that kills more people that TB, AIDS and malaria combined.
It’s a chance for CANSA to raise awareness and improve general knowledge about cancer, dismissing some misconceptions about the disease.
As more than 30% of cancers can be prevented, it’s important to make people aware of the risk factors and ways to reduce the cancer risk.
“So many South Africans have preconceived ideas of what cancer is and whom it affects, and we want to change that. It’s very important for the public to know the truth about the disease,” says CANSA CEO Sue Janse van Rensburg, a cancer survivor of almost 30 years.
It’s fear and ignorance that causes cancer to become a bigger problem than it needs to be. One of the biggest myths we are faced with is that cancer is a death sentence. I want to assure you that it isn’t,” continues Janse van Rensburg.
“There are many more other myths. We’re aware that those facing a cancer diagnosis and their loved ones are often desperate for a cure. Unfortunately, there are many myths doing the rounds regarding possible cures and treatments that are not based on scientific evidence. This gives loved ones and cancer patients false hope.”
The CANSA Web site lists some cancer myths and facts. CANSA is also on Twitter and Facebook.
World Cancer Day is the singular initiative under which the entire world can unite together in the fight against the global cancer epidemic that kills more people that TB, AIDS and malaria combined.
It’s a chance for CANSA to raise awareness and improve general knowledge about cancer, dismissing some misconceptions about the disease.
As more than 30% of cancers can be prevented, it’s important to make people aware of the risk factors and ways to reduce the cancer risk.
“So many South Africans have preconceived ideas of what cancer is and whom it affects, and we want to change that. It’s very important for the public to know the truth about the disease,” says CANSA CEO Sue Janse van Rensburg, a cancer survivor of almost 30 years.
It’s fear and ignorance that causes cancer to become a bigger problem than it needs to be. One of the biggest myths we are faced with is that cancer is a death sentence. I want to assure you that it isn’t,” continues Janse van Rensburg.
“There are many more other myths. We’re aware that those facing a cancer diagnosis and their loved ones are often desperate for a cure. Unfortunately, there are many myths doing the rounds regarding possible cures and treatments that are not based on scientific evidence. This gives loved ones and cancer patients false hope.”
The CANSA Web site lists some cancer myths and facts. CANSA is also on Twitter and Facebook.