Oncology is the study of cancer, while the person who studies cancer is called an oncologist. Since cancer has been discovered, there have been many new theories that have evolved and become more developed. These theories are about a range of topics from the causes of cancer all the way to how to cure cancer. In addition, many in the medical industry have come to an agreement that lab work is a huge part of fighting this disease. For example, Lab research and studies have shown that a sequencing-based approach designed to help give more insight and understanding towards decision making and precision in oncology labs. Along with these developments, however, many misconceptions about oncology have aroused. Below are a few misconceptions about oncology.
- Eating Sugar Will Make Cancer Worse
A common misunderstanding about oncology is that eating sugar will cause cancer cells to progress quicker. While some studies have shown cancer cells do take in more amounts of glucose than normal cells, it has yet to be proven that consuming more sugar will cause cancer cells to grow faster than cutting sugar out of a diet will cause cancer cells to leave the body. However, being able to eat sugar does not mean it should be taken advantage of. There is still a limit to how much is safe and unsafe for the body.
- Your Attitude Affects Cancer Recovery
Another misconception about oncology is that a patient’s attitude can determine the effectiveness of treatment and the recovery from having cancer. Many friends and/or family members of cancer patients may think that it will help the patient become better over time if their positive attitudes and emotions radiate towards their loved ones. This, however, has not been proven to be factually correct. Others in the room being upbeat and energetic in the presence of the patient can keep the patient smiling and engaging in social conversations. However, there has been no evidence that shows this kind of energy can reduce cancer in the body.
- Radiation/Chemotherapy Always has Negative Side Effects
Finally, another common misconception about oncology is that chemotherapy or radiation therapy will always have negative side effects. When these therapies were first being created and developed, there were, of course, some negative side effects of the process. To this day, many patients that undergo chemo/radiation therapy feel mentally and physically drained. However, Chemo/radiation therapy has been shown to have more beneficial aspects than negative.
In conclusion, there will likely always be misconceptions about oncology and how the study works. These examples of misconceptions are only a few of many already misunderstood and of what else will be misunderstood about the disease. Luckily, scientists and doctors are in labs and offices every day working together to develop new ideas and investigate previous ideas to ease the minds of patients and their families and friends. If anything is weighing on the mind about this disease, professionals are right around the corner to answer those questions and/or concerns and fears.